A LEADING Hampshire psychiatrist is urging schools to bring a halt to the UK’s binge drinking culture.

Dr Kaleem Baig believes schools across the country need make pupils more aware the effect alcohol can have on them.

A consultant psychiatrist at Southampton’s Priory Hospital, Dr Baig thinks that reduced alcohol prices, increased strengths and advertising campaigns at Christmas time were also contributing to highly damaging levels of alcohol consumption.

With this week being Alcohol Awareness week, Dr Baig said binge drinking is a prevalent problem and can lead to acts of violence.

He said: “We are a consumer society and we put great emphasis on the pursuit of pleasure.

“Reliance on alcohol in social situations has fuelled a ‘binge and brawl’ culture especially evident in major cities like Southampton.

“Changing society’s relationship with alcohol would involve considering steps such as education, early access to treatment and support.”

Latest figures show Southampton hospitals are admitting more alcohol-related harm incidents, with the number of men dying of from chronic liver disease in Southampton is 23 per 100,000 people.

Daily Echo: Dr Kaleem Baig.

Which is well above the national average of 15.5 per 100,000 people.

To educate young people in the area, Dr Baig wants schools and colleges to give their students an understanding of drinking responsibly.

Dr Baig is aware that people want to enjoy a drink, but said people should alternate alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks to keep an eye on home many units they are consuming.

“Peer pressure is a major factor, especially in younger adults, when on nights out and this is where many people would struggle,” added Dr Baig.

“But ultimately the key responsibility for taking active steps to maintain our health and well-being lies within ourselves.

“Those who feel that their drinking is problematic should not feel they are completely on their own, you can make use of the professional support available from health services to help cut down.”

Current government standards are currently under review, with women suggested two to three units a day and men three units.