Have we been drinking more?
The effects of Britons drinking more alcohol during the COVID-19 lockdowns could be felt for a generation, some experts have warned.
Alcohol sales rose by 67% just prior to the first lockdown, as many prepared to drink at home. The question remained, however – were people stocking up because they feared shortages? Or were they actually drinking more?
The research suggests that around 8.6 million UK adults have actually drunk alcohol more frequently under lockdowns, particularly those furloughed or working from home.
Worryingly, nearly one in five (18%) daily drinkers have further increased the amount of alcohol they have consumed since lockdown.
Why does it matter?
Habits are formed quickly and can be hard to break.
Alcohol intake and its management are particularly important in terms of well-being and good mental health but there are also risks beyond the individual. One in 14 (7%) survey respondents felt that alcohol had worsened their household tensions since lockdowns began.
Unfortunately, whilst alcohol can help us relax and give us a brief feeling of euphoria, the effects are short-lived and the long-term negative consequences of over-using alcohol can be harmful. If you rely on alcohol to manage your mental health issues, that reliance can itself become a problem. You may well find that your drinking gets in the way of other activities and puts a strain on your relationships and your work.
While some people will find that cutting down their alcohol intake without support is possible, others will need assistance.
What Can You Do About It?
My Reduce Alcohol hypnosis program will help. If your drinking has become a habit, it’s worth remembering that drinking is merely a mental “program” - you have “programmed” yourself to drink alcohol in just the same way that you have programmed yourself to ride a bicycle.
These mental programs can however be re-set and re-written. Hypnosis is an effective approach in dealing with the problems that excess alcohol can lead to - issues with relationships, weight and health. It will identify those areas and aspects of your life that may require tweaks and modification.
In particular, hypnosis will enable you to adapt, change and to look at alcohol intake in a completely new way. It will help you realise that alcohol is not essential to relaxation, and is not necessary as an emotional crutch or coping mechanism.
My Reduce Alcohol program will enable you to take back control, and will lead the way to a fitter, healthier you. And NOW - it can all be done from the comfort of your own home, wherever you are in the world, as online sessions are available!
Email me at asensetherapy@outlook.com or call me on 07969 416648 and let the changes begin!
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