By 3am on New Year's Day, Canberra's emergency departments will be filling to the brim with alcohol and drug-related presentations.
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While most people will be tucked in bed or winding up their celebrations, it is peak time for staff as they see case after case of substance related trauma.
So when it comes to staying out of hospital this holiday season, deputy director of Canberra Hospital's emergency department Dr Sam Scanlan's advice is simple.
Drink in moderation and be safe on the roads.
"From about 3am on New Year's Day we start to see the effects of people that have been drinking clearly to excess and we see that right the way through the new year period," Dr Scanlan said.
He commonly sees drunk people hurting themselves in simple trips and falls - ending up with injured knees and ankles or even serious head injuries.
Then there are the alcohol-fuelled disputes - most commonly between friends, family members and partners.
"We see a lot of bad stuff a lot of the time," Dr Scanlan said.
"But it really hits home at this time of year.
"It is such a nice time of year for most people and when we see that tragedy that happens around that period it really hits home to our staff
"It can be difficult to deal with those kind of things."
This time of year is tough on people with mental health issues, with hospitals commonly seeing a spike in admissions.
Dr Scanalan urged everyone to look out for their neighbours, friends and family and ask "are you OK?".
"It's a busy stressful time, and for patients that are suffering from mental health issues they see so many people around who are happy and enjoying things and they don't get that same sense of enjoyment and I think in a way it makes people feel even worse," he said.
An ACT Policing spokeswoman said police would be targeting alcohol and drug fuelled anti-social behaviour over the festive period, with an increased presence in all licensed premises and entertainment precincts.
"ACT Policing wants all Canberrans to have a safe summer by partying safely, drinking responsibly and looking out for each other," she said.
"Canberrans are reminded to think beyond the fun they may have today or tonight, and to consider the impact their behaviour has on the future.
"The festive season often brings an increase in alcohol-related incidents and arrests in the ACT."
