WARNING students about the dangers of too much alcohol may seem an uphill task - but health bosses are determined to spread the message about drinking in moderation.

New research by the University of Sussex suggests focussing on the benefits of not drinking is more effective than highlighting the damage that can be done.

It may be worth health promotion teams stepping away from the traditional approach and coming in at a different angle to see if there is any impact.

Nobody wants to be told to abstain from drinking altogether, but keeping things sensible is key. Realising that stepping back a bit and keeping sober can save money and make you feel well, may encourage some to take extra care.

Nothing will happen overnight to change a culture of drinking that has been running for decades but a different tactic might be a step in the right direction.