Alcohol Awareness Week 2024, coordinated by Alcohol Change UK, aims to raise awareness about alcohol harm and its impact on health, wellbeing, and society.
This year’s theme is “Understanding alcohol harm,” and it will take place from 1-7 July 2024. During this week, over 5,000 public health teams, workplaces, GP surgeries, pharmacies, hospitals, charities, and other community groups across the country sign up to participate [2].
By promoting understanding and informed conversations, Alcohol Awareness Week contributes to healthier communities and better-informed choices regarding alcohol consumption.
Here are some key messages for Alcohol Awareness Week 2024:
- Understanding Alcohol Harm: The focus this year is on promoting awareness and understanding of the impact of alcohol on health, relationships, and society.
- Health Risks: Alcohol consumption can lead to various health issues, including liver damage, cardiovascular problems, and mental health challenges. It’s essential to be informed about the risks.
- Moderation: Encourage responsible drinking by emphasising moderation. Know your limits and be mindful of how much you’re consuming.
- Support and Resources: Highlight available support services, such as helplines, counselling, and treatment options for those struggling with alcohol dependence.
- Community Engagement: Participate in local events, workshops, and discussions during Alcohol Awareness Week to foster community awareness and education.
Why do we care?
Simply because alcohol and mental health are closely intertwined.
How does alcohol affect both our brain and our bodies?
Brain Effects:
Depressant: Alcohol disrupts neurotransmitter balance in the brain, impacting our feelings, thoughts, and ultimately our behaviours.
Initial Relaxation: After a drink, you may feel relaxed, less anxious, and more confident due to inhibited brain function.
Negative Feelings: However, these effects wear off quickly, leading to anger, depression, or anxiety regardless of your initial mood.
Information Processing: Alcohol slows down brain processing, making it harder to understand your true feelings and consequences.
Long-Term Impact: Prolonged alcohol use reduces neurotransmitters, potentially triggering dependence.
Body Effects:
Short-Term: Excessive drinking can cause alcohol poisoning, sleep disturbances, stomach issues, bloating, and migraines.
Behavioural Risks: Recklessness, aggression, accidents, and violence can result from heavy drinking.
Long-Term Risks: Chronic alcohol misuse increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, liver disease, and cancer.
Social Consequences: Relationship problems, unemployment, financial difficulties, and homelessness can impact mental health.
Remember, seeking help and exploring a healthier relationship with alcohol is essential. There’s no shame in asking for support!
Getting support for alcohol addiction
If you’re seeking help for alcohol problems in the UK, there are several resources available to you:
Speak to Your GP: Starting with your general practitioner (GP) is a good first step. They can assess your situation and recommend appropriate support options, including local community alcohol services.
Local Community Alcohol Services: These services offer assessments and various forms of support. You can inquire about free local support groups and alcohol counselling that may suit your needs.
Helplines:
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): Alcohol helpline provides confidential support. You can call them at 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9 am to 8 pm, weekends 11 am to 4 pm
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): AA offers free self-help groups based on a “12-step” program to help individuals get sober with regular support meetings.
- Al-Anon UK: These groups provide support to families and friends of problem drinkers, whether the person is still drinking or not.
- Alateen: Part of Al-Anon UK, Alateen is for 12 to 17-year-olds affected by someone else’s drinking, usually a parent.
- We Are With You: A UK-wide treatment agency that helps individuals, families, and communities manage the effects of drug and alcohol misuse.
- Adfam: A national charity supporting families affected by drugs and alcohol, offering an online message board and local support groups1.
Online Directories:
- NHS Services: You can use the NHS services directory to find alcohol addiction support services in your area.
- Alcohol Change UK: Check their directory to find local providers and treatment services.
- Mind: Their page on support for drug and alcohol problems provides more information on ways to get help for alcohol use.
- Drinkaware: They also offer an essential list of support services and treatment providers.
Self-help:
If you’re looking for online self-help resources to reduce alcohol consumption, consider the following options:
- Drinkaware: Their website provides information, tools, and advice on alcohol and its effects. You’ll find tips for cutting down, tracking your drinking, and understanding the risks associated with alcohol use.
- NHS Choices: The NHS website offers guidance on alcohol reduction, including a self-assessment tool to evaluate your drinking habits. It also provides practical advice on setting goals and making positive changes.
- One You: This public health initiative by the NHS has a “Drink Free Days” app that helps you track alcohol-free days and set targets for reducing consumption.
- Alcohol Change UK: They offer a free online course called “Try Dry” that supports individuals in taking a break from alcohol. It includes daily emails with tips and encouragement.
Be aware that self-help resources can be a valuable complement to professional support. If you’re struggling with alcohol, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional or one of the helplines mentioned earlier for personalised guidance.
Remember, seeking help is a courageous step, and there are resources available to support you on your journey toward better health and well-being. 😊🌟
References:
- Alcohol Change UK. (2024). Alcohol Awareness Week 2024.
- Public Health England. (2024). Alcohol Awareness Week 2024.
- Mental Health f`oundation
- Alcohol Change UK
- WebMD1
Disclaimer:
This post has been written to raise awareness is not written by medical professionals. All references were checked and correct at time of posting.