Today marks the end of #AlcoholAwarenessWeek where we have been sharing relevant information and facts created by Alcohol Change. One of the most interesting articles looks at the link between alcohol and mental health. So we share here some of their resources and text.

Alcohol has been described as ‘the UK’s favourite coping mechanism’, and many of us do drink to try and help manage stress, anxiety, depression or other mental health problems.

This is sometimes called ‘self-medicating’ with alcohol. Unfortunately, although alcohol can help us feel relaxed initially and give us a brief feeling of euphoria, the effects are short-lived and the long-term negative consequences of drinking a lot over a long period of time can be quite harmful:

• Overuse of alcohol can contribute to the worsening of symptoms of many mental health problems. In particular, it can lead to low mood and anxiety
• As the immediate feeling of calm after drinking fades over time, you may feel worse than before
• Post-drinking hangovers can be particularly difficult, with the usual headache and nausea being accompanied by feelings of depression and/or anxiety
• Using alcohol in this way can mean that the underlying mental health problems aren’t addressed

What to do if you’re struggling

If you are feeling anxious, low or experiencing any other symptoms of mental health problems, you deserve support. You can speak to your GP, and get advice and help at www.mind.org.uk.

You can find further information here https://alcoholchange.org.uk/