Increased boozing in lockdown could be a tough habit to break

If you’ve upped your alcohol consumption in lockdown, you’re not the only one.

But have you thought about how you’re going to get your drinking levels back down to a healthier pre-lockdown tendency?

For some, it’s going to be tough.

A charity has warned that our increased boozing in lockdown could have a lasting impact.

Research from Drinkaware found that 22% of adults admit they’ve been drinking more alcohol in lockdown, but that this tendency is even stronger among teenagers under 18 and young people in their 20s.

People surveyed listed off boredom, having more time on their hands, and increased anxiety as reasons for upping their alcohol levels, but the charity has warned that after lockdown, our drinking could become a habit that is ‘ingrained and hard to break’.

Drinkaware chief executive Elaine Hindal said: ‘At a time when adopting a healthy lifestyle has never been more important, our latest research clearly shows certain groups of people are displaying worrying new drinking patterns during this very challenging time.

‘We’re concerned that, for a significant number of people, lockdown levels of drinking may become ingrained and hard to break.

‘Drinking more, whether out of boredom or anxiety, can lead to devastating health consequences, both mental and physical, as well as an increased tolerance for alcohol, which can lead to alcohol dependence.’

It’s easy to assume that alcohol consumption that increased in lockdown will return to normal once the world is back in action. But that might not be the case.

Once a habit is part of your daily life, it’s tough to break it, and many will have started relying on booze as a coping mechanism for the stress and anxiety of the pandemic – an unhealthy technique that could continue far beyond this time cooped up at home.

The Drinkaware team want the Government to consider alcohol as a ‘critical factor’ within mental health strategies.

They say that anyone who is worried about their alcohol consumption should seek support.

‘Understanding what triggers you to drink more can help you avoid reaching for alcohol,’ said Elaine.

‘Sticking to the low-risk drinking guidelines of no more than 14 units a week – that’s about six glasses of wine or six pints of beer – is a good place to start to help you keep track.’

Need support? Contact the Samaritans

For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email [email protected], visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.

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