For many of us our relationship with alcohol evolves overtime, depending on a range of factors from health and wellbeing, impacts to social circles, and our life stage. What once felt like a way to relax or connect can gradually start to become more of a habit, or even a burden. Recognising those changes can be hard but can be the first step toward making choices that support your wellbeing.
It’s important to understand your relationship with alcohol
Your relationship with alcohol may have developed gradually over years. But just because it’s familiar doesn’t mean it’s still working for you:
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You might notice you’re drinking more out of routine than enjoyment
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Socialising without a drink might feel harder than it used to
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You’ve caught yourself thinking, “Maybe I should cut back.”
It’s a great idea to pause, reflect, and ask yourself whether alcohol still plays the role you want it to in your life.
Signs your relationship with alcohol may be changing
Sometimes the signs are subtle:
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Feeling groggy, anxious, or low the day after drinking
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Regretting how much you drank the night before
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Realising your drinking has increased over time
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Noticing that you rely on alcohol to feel relaxed in certain settings
These signals don’t necessarily mean you have to give up drinking entirely. Instead, they’re prompts to reflect and decide what you want your relationship with alcohol to look like going forward.
What a new relationship can look like
Reassessing your drinking doesn’t mean giving up fun or freedom. In fact, many people find they feel better day-to-day after making small changes. This could include:
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Drinking only when you genuinely want to
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Having alcohol-free days each week
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Choosing low or no-alcohol alternatives
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Enjoying social situations without needing a drink to feel comfortable
Even small shifts can help you feel more in control, improve sleep, boost energy, and support your mental health.
Practical steps to start changing
If you’re ready to explore a new relationship with alcohol, try starting with small, manageable actions:
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Use the Drinking Check to understand your drinking habits and get tailored tips for cutting back
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Plan alcohol-free activities to give your body a reset
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Talk to friends, family, or a partner about your goals
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Keep alcohol-free alternatives at home so you’ve got easy options
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Set a motivating goal, like saving money, sleeping better, or improving fitness
Changing your relationship with alcohol is a personal journey. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach and it’s never too late to start. With the right tools, like the Drinking Check, and small, consistent steps, you can create a healthier, more positive relationship with alcohol that works for you.