Alcohol and me

I am the daughter of an alcoholic. For many years I didn't feel able to share that, it wasn't something we talked about as family and it definitely wasn't something we talked about publicly. To the outside world all looked well.  

You might think that that would make me anti-alcohol - it hasn't! What is has done is made me aware of what a slippery slope drinking can be and how important it is to be mindful of what we drink. I have spoken to many people in recent years about alcohol and the impact it can have on lives, our own, and the people around us. I have gathered some top tips and insights along the way, and I'm sharing a few of those here. 

 Notice

It's so easy to come home from work and open a bottle of wine and think nothing of it. It's easy to pour a drink and pay no attention to how much is in the glass. It's easy for one drink to become two and it's easy to form a habit without even realising. So being aware of what you are doing is tip number one. Keep a diary, use a measuring cup, take notice of what you are putting into your body.  Drinking too much doesn’t make you an alcoholic — but that doesn’t mean it can’t still be a problem. 

Slow down

If you find that you are drinking a bit too much there are some simple tricks you can use to manage your intake - particularly helpful in social situations where sometimes the pressure to keep up takes over. Have a soft drink, mocktail or glass of water between alcoholic drinks.  Second tip - put the glass down - do you know if you keep the glass or can in your hand you drink faster! Between sips, put the drink down this really does help you pace yourself. 

 Stay open

When we drink too much, we can feel shame, we might think we are weak or worry about what others think. This can lead to drinking on our own, hiding bottles and lying to our loved ones about where we have been and how much we have had to drink. This road goes nowhere good - if you feel like this might be you, you can arrange to talk to one of our Coaches - no judgment just support and we can connect you to other more specialised help if needed. 

Consider alcohol-free

 For some people, living an alcohol-free life is the way forward, and this is more acceptable than ever with a huge variety of alcohol-free drinks on the market. I have many friends who no longer drink and they feel better than ever. I also have friends who do have the occasional drink. Whatever you choose - do it safely. The guidelines say no more than 14 units per week, and if you are not sure what that means, the NHS have a handy free tool you can use: Alcohol units - NHS 

 As for me, I'm continuing my own journey by supporting others with theirs. Working at LiveWell Dorset is such a privilege, and I know that you if you take that first step and reach out to us for help, that my teammates will support and guide you to become a happier, healthier version of you.