Alcohol Awareness Week
Alcohol Awareness Week is run by Alcohol Change UK and provides the opportunity for charities, local authorities, GP surgeries, businesses, and others to engage in discussions and raise awareness about the adverse effects of alcohol within their communities.
Carry on reading to find out more about where to get support with alcohol addiction and how to get involved this year.
Are you struggling with drinking?
If you feel like alcohol is becoming a problem, it may be time to get help.
Signs that you may be drinking too much include:
- Feeling the need to have a drink to ‘unwind’ at the end of the day.
- Emotional drinking e.g. consuming alcohol to numb the pain after a bad day.
- Friends, family or colleagues have expressed concern towards your drinking habits.
- You often find yourself drinking alone.
Ideas for cutting down
- Try incorporating ‘alcohol free’ days into your week
- Swap alcohol for non-alcoholic alternatives
- Take up a new hobby that doesn’t involve drinking
- Keep track of your units
- Make note every time you pick up a drink and why to uncover habits
Where to get support
Contact your GP who can refer you to a specialist for support with your drinking.
You can also get confidential support from the organisations listed below:
- Drinkline – 0300 123 1110
- Drinkchat – click here to talk with an advisor over webchat
- Alcoholics Annonymous – call 0800 9177650 or email [email protected]
How can I help raise awareness as a healthcare professional?
- Put posters up in your practice (download them for free here)
- Point people in the direction of Alcohol Change UK’s interactive tools
- Encourage patients and colleagues to visit the Alcohol Change UK website for top tips and useful resources on drinking in moderation and how to cut down
Looking for a new healthcare role? Get in touch today via [email protected] if you’re interested in any of our current opportunities.