Drinking is fun until it isn’t!
If you’re reading this and you’re in the UK then you’ll know that drinking is such a huge part of British culture.
Now I like a drink as much as the next person and enjoying a nice cold one after a long day at work on a nice summers’ evening is great, there’s no denying it.
However, if you notice that a couple of cold ones with the boys veers into unchartered territory fairly quickly it could be worth thinking about why that could be?
It’s recommended that you don’t exceed more than 14 units of alcohol a week on a regular basis and you’re encouraged to spread your drinking over 3 or more days if you regularly drink as much as 14 units a week.
Reducing your overall alcohol intake can be a positive step for your health, your relationships and your overall well-being.
Here are some tips for helping you drink less:
1. Set Clear Goals: Determine why you want to drink less. Whether it's for health reasons, to save money or to improve relationships, having a clear goal can motivate you.
2. Track Your Consumption: Keep a journal or use an app to track how much you're drinking. Seeing the actual amount can be eye-opening and help you make changes.
3. Limit Availability: Keep less alcohol in your home to reduce temptation. If it's not easily accessible, you're less likely to drink.
4. Find Alternatives: Discover non-alcoholic drinks that you enjoy. There are many tasty options available, from mocktails to flavored sparkling water.
5. Set Boundaries: Establish limits for yourself before you start drinking, such as deciding on a maximum number of drinks or setting a specific time to stop.
6. Practice Saying No: Be prepared to decline offers of drinks when you're out with friends or colleagues. You can politely decline or suggest alternative activities.
7. Avoid Triggers: Identifying situations or emotions that trigger your desire to drink and find healthier ways to cope with them, such as exercise, meditation or talking to a friend.
8. Seek Support: Share your goal with supportive friends or family members who can encourage and help you stick to it. You might also consider joining a support group or seeking professional help if needed.
9. Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Every step toward drinking less is a positive achievement.
10. Be Patient and Persistent: Changing habits takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and stay committed to your goal, even if you experience setbacks.
Remember, it's okay to seek professional help if you're struggling to cut back on your own. There are many resources available to support you on your journey to drinking less, here are a few:
The Lower My Drinking App, which allows you to track your alcohol intake and gives you expert advice and tools to help you reduce your drinking to the recommended 14 units a week or less.
Drinkline which is the national alcohol helpline, it’s a free helpline that you can call if you’re worried about your drinking or that of somebody close to you.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) -a free self help group sober. Its "12 step" programme involves getting sober with the help of regular support groups so you’re not alone.