Alcohol consumption
Are you wondering whether you’d like to drink less alcohol? Perhaps you drink more often than you intended. Or you’ve noticed that alcohol has become a regular way to unwind after a busy day. Many people drink out of habit, for social reasons or to cope with stress. Yet alcohol can affect your sleep, energy levels, mood and health. Drinking less doesn’t have to start with a big decision. Sometimes it helps simply to take an honest look at when you drink, why you drink and what you get out of it. Without judgement. The aim isn’t to criticise yourself, but to gain more control.
What do you notice?
Alcohol consumption can affect your daily life in various ways.
You may, for example, notice that:
- you drink more often than you would like;
- you find it difficult to say ‘no’ in company;
- you use alcohol to relax;
- you sleep less well after drinking alcohol;
- you have less energy the following day;
- you drink more when you’re stressed or feeling emotional;
- you feel guilty after drinking;
- you are finding it difficult to cut down;
- people around you make comments.
Sometimes alcohol seems to help you relax. But in the long term, it can actually lead to poorer sleep, increased stress and reduced recovery.
What might be the cause?
Drinking alcohol can become a habit. For example, when coming home from work, at the weekend or during social gatherings. Drinking is then linked to a particular moment, feeling or setting.
Stress, tiredness, worries or loneliness can also play a part. Alcohol can then feel like a quick way to numb your feelings or escape your responsibilities for a while.
In addition, social pressure can play a part. If others are drinking, it can sometimes be difficult to say no. Especially if alcohol is part of a group or a custom.
What can you do yourself?
It helps to be clear about your alcohol consumption for your own sake. Don’t just think that you want to drink less; look at where you can start.
For example, you could:
- keep a record of when you drink for a while;
- planning alcohol-free days;
- stocking up on non-alcoholic alternatives at home;
- drink smaller amounts;
- start later in the evening;
- think in advance about what you will say if you want to say no;
- Do not use alcohol as a sleep aid;
- Ask for support from someone you trust.
Choose a step that feels achievable. Cutting down on drinking is often easier if you know which moment is the most difficult for you.
When is it advisable to seek help?
Seeking help is advisable if you are unable to cut down on your drinking or if alcohol has become a regular way of coping with stress, sadness or tension. It is also a good idea to contact your GP if you experience any symptoms, have arguments because of alcohol, or are worried about your drinking.
Do not suddenly stop drinking if you consume a lot of alcohol and notice that you experience symptoms when you do not drink. Discuss this with your GP first. It is important to cut down safely.
How Rondom can help
Together, we’ll look at the role alcohol plays in your daily life. In doing so, we’ll consider your habits, stress levels, sleep, social situations and recovery.
A lifestyle coach can help to reduce alcohol consumption and build new habits. In cases of stress, sadness, shame or difficulty exercising self-control, it can psychological support should be appropriate. A occupational therapist can help if daily structure, overload or boundaries are an issue.
Together, we will look for practical steps to help you gain better control over your alcohol consumption.
