This year has been difficult for all of us. Routines have changed, we’ve felt isolated from friends and family and many of us have been under much more stress than usual. Some of us have suffered bereavement or lost our jobs leaving us stressed. All of these things can change our drinking habits.  As we move out of lockdown it could be time to have a look at whether our drinking habits have changed and, if so, how we can get back on track.

According to Alcohol Change there have been 20% more deaths from alcohol related causes since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic

“In fact, there were more deaths as a result of alcohol than in any year since data collection began. Since the start of the pandemic, those already drinking heavily are most likely to have been drinking more. Those who need help with their drinking, and with alcohol-related conditions, are not seeking it.”

If you would like to get support or advice about your drinking Alcohol Change can help. If you want to find out if you are drinking more than you should, take this quick quiz  . They also have some really useful Tips for Cutting Down.

 

How much should I be drinking?

 

How much is a unit?

 

I’m pregnant what is a “safe” amount to be  drinking?

 

A great way to keep track of your drinking is to Download the free Alcohol Change app to help you meet your goals, whether you want to take on Dry January (or another dry challenge), cut down on your drinking, or go totally alcohol-free.

 

• Track your units, calories and money saved when you cut down or cut out alcohol
• Understand your drinking pattern and track your progress by using the ‘My charts’ feature to see how much money you spend, units you drink and calories you consume over a time period
• Use the health quiz to check up on your drinking
• Keep track of your current and best ever dry streaks

If you would like help with your drinking, or you are worried about someone else’s drinking, help and support is available.

 

Drinkaware can help you if you would like to talk, call the Drinkline Helpline: 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am–8pm, weekends 11am–4pm)

 

 

 

If you are worried about someone in your family Al-Anon can help you.  Contact them here.

 

 

 

Call their helpline on 0800 9177 650 to speak with someone who can help you or email: help@aamail.org if you have more questions or need more information