As the cooler months arrive, many people’s routines are likely to shift. For some, the routine of after-work pints and weekend cocktails can begin to feel like a normal part of life.
Although this may appear harmless, experts caution that the distinction between moderate drinking and alcohol dependence is delicately narrow. It’s surprising how quickly casual drinking can escalate into a more serious issue, often without people realising it.
Alcohol frequently plays a role in social gatherings, festivities, or relaxing after a tiring day. But what’s considered an excess?
Dr. Dave Nichols, a general practitioner with the NHS and a medical adviser at MyHealthChecked, is tackling this matter. In an interview with “The Sun”,he talked about how many regular drinkers are unaware of the point at which casual drinking becomes a concern.
Dr. Nichols identifies this gray area as the realm of “borderline alcoholics.” This term refers to individuals who might not currently exhibit physical dependence but are in danger of developing it in the future.
This situation is more prevalent than most realize. According to NHS data from 2021, over 50% of adults consume alcohol on a weekly basis, with 10% drinking on five or more days per week.
Although these figures may not appear concerning at first glance, they indicate that unregulated drinking behaviors carry considerable consequences. Dr. Nichols cautions that numerous individuals fail to recognize the dangers linked to habitual alcohol consumption.
The NHS has highlighted six indicators that suggest an individual might be on the verge of alcoholism. Frequently ignored, these cautionary indicators highlight trends in alcohol consumption that could lead to enduring health issues.
One of the initial indicators is consuming alcohol on a daily basis without giving it much thought. Regular consumption can develop into a routine that’s challenging to overcome.
This is characterized by frequent binge drinking—consuming multiple drinks on a single occasion. Dr. Nichols highlights the dangers of binge drinking, noting its potential for both short-term and lasting harm.
One more indication is that people only engage in social activities where drinks are available. When social events devoid of alcohol appear uninviting or infrequent, it may serve as a red flag.
Consuming alcohol frequently throughout the day, especially beyond usual social times, raises concerns. One of the most revealing indicators may be the annoyance experienced when others choose not to consume alcohol.
This concern may suggest that alcohol is increasingly playing a significant role in your social interactions. A notable indication is that the NHS regularly exceeds its recommended threshold of 14 units of alcohol per week.
Fourteen units translates to six medium glasses of wine or six pints of 4% beer. Consistently surpassing this threshold heightens the likelihood of developing both physical and mental reliance on alcohol.
The initial indicators of borderline alcoholism might appear mild, yet the repercussions can be significant. Dr. Nichols highlights that individuals in this group may encounter symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, heightened anxiety, and elevated blood pressure.
Other signs may consist of anxiety, difficulty resting, skin issues, and increased irritability. Although these symptoms could be caused by a variety of factors, they frequently indicate that alcohol is having an adverse effect on your well-being.
The lasting consequences of borderline alcoholism can be quite concerning. Dr. Nichols highlights that numerous individuals remain oblivious to the concealed health issues stemming from their alcohol consumption.
These encompass unusual liver function, heart-related issues, diabetes, and challenges related to mental well-being. He warns that the true threat lies in the fact that these conditions frequently remain undetected until they have advanced considerably.
Although the situation might appear discouraging, there are measures to take charge of drinking behaviors. Dr. Nichols recommends initiating modest adjustments, such as coordinating gatherings that exclude alcoholic beverages.
Engaging in activities like a coffee date, an exercise class, or a trip to the cinema fosters connections without relying on alcohol, reshaping the way we experience social interactions. He suggests reaching out to others who are also working on reducing their habits.
Online communities or neighborhood groups can offer a nurturing environment. One useful suggestion is to adhere to the NHS’s recommendations by capping alcohol intake at 14 units weekly, distributed across multiple days.
Monitoring intake helps individuals stick to this limit and steer clear of excessive drinking. For individuals seeking additional assistance, resources such as Drinkline, Alcoholics Anonymous, and We Are With You provide free and private support.
Borderline alcoholism might not evoke the same level of concern as complete dependence. However, the dangers are both genuine and considerable.
Identifying the initial indicators and implementing measures to reduce them can help prevent significant issues from arising. Dr. Nichols highlights the importance of reducing alcohol consumption for safeguarding health in both the immediate and distant future.
Anyone contemplating alcohol should act now. Minor adjustments made now can significantly influence health outcomes down the line.
Recognising warning signs early can significantly improve the likelihood of preventing alcohol dependence
Feature Image Credit: (Canva)
