Hi Paul
I'm kinda familiar with Smartie thinking. I think the CBA(cost benefit analysis) could be applied here to help you make a choice. Basically, this tool is where you write down the benefits of drinking, disadvantages, benefits of not drinking, and disadvantages of not drinking. As an example, based on your opening post:
Advantages of drinking
-the buzz felt good
-socially acceptable
Disadvantages of drinking
-hangover
-guilt about drinking
Advantages of not drinking
-feel good next day no hangover
-no guilty feelings
Disadvantages of not drinking
-miss the buzz
-feel left out socially
This is just a simple example. When I do one there are usually many more entries for each section, but you get the idea. Simple but it can open a whole new way of thinking to help with your choice.
The CBA has helped me a lot, along with other Smart tools.
Good luck
Mongo