Dutch courage, drowning your sorrows, drinking to forget, a nightcap, these are just some of the expressions we hear about using alcohol to make us feel better. But underlying this seemingly flippant relationship between worry, sadness , insomnia and alcohol is the widespread use of drinking to ‘treat’ mental health problems when there is substantial evidence to suggest that it only makes these problems worse.
Mental well-being and substance dependence frequently have a complicated connection, where one can influence and exacerbates the other. In fact, according to a report on The Adult substance misuse treatment statistics 2022 to 2023, over two-thirds (71%, or 97,685) of adults starting treatment said they had a need for mental health treatment.
Addiction treatment enables people to tackle addiction’s disruptive effects on their brain and behaviour and regain control of their lives.
Why is this important?
Effective recovery from addiction involves more than just stopping substance use; it requires tackling the emotional and psychological issues behind it. Understanding the strong connection between mental health and addiction allows us to develop treatment strategies that promote enduring change rather than mere short-term solutions.
Impact of Alcohol on Mental Health
Drinking alcohol affects the part of your brain that controls inhibition, this means it makes you feel relaxed, less anxious, and more confident after a drink. Unfortunately, the after affects aren’t as relaxing. Alcohol affects the chemistry of the brain, increasing the risk of depression, panic disorder and impulsive behaviour.
Alcohol functions as a depressant, which means it slows down brain activity and influences our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Therefore, while consuming a few drinks might temporarily boost mood, the long-term consequences can negatively affect our psychological health.
Emotional changes
Frequently drinking alcohol can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in our brains, resulting in heightened anxiety, irritability, and potential depressive symptoms. These effects can leave us not only with hangover symptoms but feeling down and lacking motivation.
Disrupted Sleep Patterns
Contrary to popular belief, alcohol does not enhance our sleep quality.
While it may initially induce drowsiness, it disrupts the quality of our rest, stopping our ability to achieve deep sleep stages. This can lead to increased tiredness and sluggishness the following day, ultimately impacting our mental health.
Lack of sleep can affect our mental health in the following ways: increased irritability, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, and potentially worsening existing mental health conditions, or even triggering new ones.
Cognitive Impairments
Under the influence of alcohol, our cognitive functions do not operate at their best.
It negatively affects our memory, decision-making skills, and critical thinking abilities, resulting in faulty judgment and regrettable decisions.
Over time, this can detrimentally affect our self-esteem and overall psychological well-being.
Social Ramifications
Alcohol can change our behaviour, which can lead to arguments and misunderstandings in our personal and work relationships.
This kind of stress on a relationship can result in a loss of trust and ultimately, feelings of loneliness, all of which can significantly affect our mental state.
Steps Towards Reducing Alcohol Abstinence
It’s well known that drinking alcohol can have extensive repercussions on our mental health that extend beyond immediate discomfort and guilt.
It is vital to be conscious of our drinking behaviours and seek assistance when necessary to uphold a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Remember that mental health is equally important to physical health, so prioritise your mind, which will reciprocate.
The process involves taking gradual, manageable actions and finding support such as rehabilitation. Let’s explore further!
Recognising Our Drinking Behaviours
The initial step towards change is becoming aware of how alcohol is affecting your life. By reflecting on our drinking habits and pinpointing triggers, we can begin to make deliberate decisions to decrease our alcohol intake.
Engaging in journaling and self-reflection can be effective methods in this journey. Joining local support groups in person or online and attending addiction counselling are very good places to start. However, rehabilitation is ultimately the best place to start addiction recovery because you can abstain from alcohol safely and comfortably, while being introduced to support groups and counselling.
Establishing Attainable Objectives
Setting realistic goals is crucial for maintaining motivation and dedication. This might involve cutting down on weekly drink counts, designating alcohol-free days, or even discovering new activities to replace drinking. The focus should be on progress rather than perfection.
Creating a Support System
A robust support network can significantly impact your journey. When needed, connect with family, friends, or professionals who can offer encouragement, accountability, and a sympathetic ear. Online forums and support groups can also serve as valuable resources.
Adopting Mindful Alternatives
Consider replacing alcoholic drinks with healthier options like mocktails, sparkling water, or herbal teas. You may also want to incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga to reduce stress and enhance mental health without depending on alcohol.
Reaching Out for Professional Assistance
If you find it challenging to diminish your drinking or believe you may have an alcohol dependency, don’t hesitate to contact a local addiction rehab, mental health expert or support group. They can offer guidance, resources, and personalised strategies to assist you on your path.
Reducing or eliminating alcohol intake can significantly enhance both physical and mental well-being. By decreasing your drinking habits, you can experience better sleep, an uplifted mood, and a stronger immune system. You might also observe clearer thinking, higher energy levels, and potential weight loss. Cutting down on alcohol lowers the chances of developing severe health issues like liver or heart disease and certain cancers. Additionally, your relationships and overall quality of life may improve as you focus on self-care and wellness. Adopting a healthier lifestyle by moderating alcohol consumption is an impactful step towards a more joyful and balanced existence.
Remember, change requires time!
It’s essential to understand that achieving positive transformation takes time, patience, and kindness toward oneself. By emphasising your mental health and seeking assistance, you can effectively address the difficulties of reducing alcohol intake and pursuing a happier, healthier lifestyle. So, take that initial step, and let’s work together towards a brighter future!
Support is available
Moreover, it’s crucial to acknowledge that there are many resources available both online and locally in the UK for those tackling alcohol and mental health challenges. On the internet, you can access valuable information on the NHS website, which offers guidance on alcohol use, its effects, and strategies for reducing consumption.
Furthermore, organisations such as Alcohol Change UK and Mind provide a wealth of resources, including self-help tools, online support communities, and pathways to professional help.
In your community, you can consult your GP for tailored advice and recommendations for support services nearby. Many areas also feature alcohol support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous, where you can connect with individuals experiencing similar struggles. Mental health charities such as Rethink Mental Illness and Samaritans offer local support groups and helplines to assist those with mental health challenges.
Keep in mind that you are not alone on your path towards better mental health and lower alcohol consumption. A diverse array of resources is available to empower and aid you at every stage of the journey. Remain resilient and seek help that can foster a healthier, happier life. You can do this!
