Purim is a fun holiday universally celebrated by all walks of life in Israel… but there are dangers
involved… especially to teens who find themselves easy access to Alcohol and frivolity.
Alcohol toxicity can lead to brain damage, neurological damage, and even death. Dozens of Gap Year students in the past have been injured or even killed as a result of this phenomenon. Purim is an excuse for excesses in alcohol, but caution is needed.
It is a tradition, some even say a Mitzvah, to drink alcohol on Purim. But balance is needed between student’s health and well-being and alcohol moderation. A few years ago, a Yeshiva student I know ended up face down in a puddle of his own vomit in his Rabbi’s backyard before his friends realized that he had drunk too much. The yeshiva student had no recollection of the event – further indication of alcohol toxicity. When I was in Israel for my Gap Year, a seminary girl died of alcohol toxicity.
Here are some guidelines for Gap Year students:
1. DO NOT drive after consuming ANY alcohol. Do not get into a car with a driver who has drunk ANY alcohol.
2. Stick with low-alcohol beverages. This can be seen on any label of alcoholic products as a percentage. 5-6% wine will give you a “buzz” without losing your sensibilities!
3. Do not mix drinks – it causes an increased chance for toxic effects.
4. If you feel light-headed, avoid high-traffic roads, and stay in safe places (you don’t want to fall into a moving car)!
5. Keep yourself watered and fed. Hydration is very important to keeping yourself healthy. Don’t drink anything on an empty stomach.
Most Importantly:
STOP DRINKING AS SOON AS YOU FEEL EVEN A LITTLE GIDDY OR LIGHT-HEADED. Getting drunk is not only not fun, but can be dangerous.
Happy Purim and stay safe!
EMA Care helps gap-year student health care needs through advocacy, case management, and coordination.
http://healthcareisrael.com