Easter is often seen as a time to slow down, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy a well‑earned break. For many people, it can also be a time when alcohol becomes a bigger part of socialising long lunches, backyard barbecues, camping trips, and public holidays can all create extra pressure to drink.
If you're looking to cut back or stay in control of your drinking this Easter, a little planning can make a big difference.
Why Easter can be tricky
With multiple public holidays, fewer work commitments and more social catch‑ups, it's easy for “just one or two" drinks to turn into more than you planned. Alcohol is often treated as part of the celebration, and that can make it harder to stick to limits especially when everyone else is drinking.
The good news is that Easter can be enjoyed just as much (and often more) without overdoing it.
Set your intention early
Before the long weekend starts, take a moment to think about what you want your Easter to look like.
- Do you want to wake up feeling fresh each day?
- Save money?
- Be more present with family or friends?
- Avoid the anxiety or low mood that can follow heavy drinking?
Having a clear reason can help guide your choices when you're offered a drink or thinking about opening another bottle.
Make a plan that works for you
Planning ahead doesn't mean missing out, it just means staying in control.
Some ideas include:
- Decide on alcohol‑free days, especially if you're attending multiple events across the weekend
- Set a drink limit and stick to it
- Choose alcohol‑free or low‑alcohol options and bring your own if you're worried there won't be any available
- Avoid “rounds", which can make it easy to drink more than you intended
If you're hosting, you can help everyone feel included by offering interesting alcohol‑free drinks like sparkling water with citrus, mocktails, or kombucha.
Eat well and pace yourself
Easter often comes with plenty of food, take advantage of it.
- Eat before and while drinking
- Sip slowly rather than topping up automatically
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks
Staying hydrated and nourished can help reduce the urge to drink quickly or excessively.
Have an exit strategy
If you know a situation might be challenging, plan how you'll handle it.
- Drive yourself so you can leave early
- Let someone you trust know your plan so they can support you
- Practise a simple response if you're offered drinks, such as:
“I'm taking it easy today" or “I'm good with this, thanks"
Remember, you don't owe anyone an explanation.
Focus on what Easter is really about
Alcohol doesn't have to be the highlight of the long weekend. Try shifting the focus to things that help you relax and recharge, such as:
- Outdoor activities or coastal walks
- Time with kids, family or pets
- Cooking, baking, or enjoying Easter treats
- Catching up on rest, movies, or hobbies
Many people find that cutting back helps them enjoy these moments more fully.
If things don't go to plan
If you drink more than you intended, be kind to yourself. One weekend doesn't define you. Reflect on what made it difficult and think about what you might do differently next time.
Need extra support?
If you feel that you need support, why not take advantage of services like the free NSW telephone-based coaching service Get Healthy. This service is designed to support you to make healthy lifestyle changes and reduce your alcohol consumption.
The NSW Get Healthy Service is available Mon – Fri 8am – 8pm. To enroll call 1300 806 258 or register online on their website.
For free and confidential advice 24/7 call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) on 1800 250 015. Counsellors are available to provide information, referrals, crisis counselling and support. Or start a Web Chat with an ADIS counsellor online Monday to Friday, 8.30am – 5pm.
