By Cathrine Badillo
Fall is upon us! When I think of fall, I think spooky vibes, trips to the pumpkin patch, football games/tailgating, and Halloween parties. Although some of these activities might include the consumption of alcohol, you can still be a part of the fun while staying sober. This National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week, Oct. 18-22, I encourage you to think twice before drinking, especially if you or someone around you is getting behind the wheel.
Just because you decide to stay sober, doesn’t mean you need to be empty handed at your event! Mocktails are a great alternative to an alcoholic beverage. Whether you’re attending a tailgate on Saturday before the game, or attending a Halloween party, pack ingredients or bring a pre-made Mocktail for you and your friends to enjoy.
Here are some delicious Mocktails you can pack:
Some benefits to Mocktails compared to alcoholic beverages are that they are safe for everyone to enjoy. Underage peers or designated drivers are still able to take part in the fun without any of alcohol’s adverse effects. Another benefit to Mocktails is that they will not impact your decision making. Alcohol lowers inhibitions, and impairs judgement and decision making skills. Its effect on your brain can lead to dangerous or embarrassing situations. For example, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 10,000 people lose their lives each year due to drunk driving. With Mocktails, you don’t have to worry about any of these consequences caused by consuming alcohol, and taste good!
I encourage you to be the safe host! Pack a mocktail, so you can help control the outcome of the night.
More mocktail recipes from the UDS Team.
Catherine Badillo is a student at the University of Houston majoring in American Sign Language Interpreting. She plans to become an educational interpreter to provide deaf students with access to communication in schools.
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