This month, I’ve been sharing a series of reflections on alcohol—why I gave it up, how we’re influenced by marketing, and the shifting culture around alcohol in the workplace. To wrap up this series, I want to challenge the way we define problem drinking.
When we hear the term, many of us picture someone passed out on a park bench or drinking heavily in a pub midweek, or even drinking in the morning. But I believe that’s far too narrow—and even unhelpful—an interpretation.
What Is Problem Drinking?
Problem drinking isn’t about how many drinks you have, how many units you consume, or what’s average for people your age, gender, height, etc. It’s about what happens when you drink.
- Maybe it’s two glasses of wine, and you send a text you regret.
- Maybe it’s a couple of beers and a conversation that turns sour, or you say something you wish you hadn’t.
- Maybe it’s a regular pattern of drinking that you know is affecting your sleep, your energy, your relationships or your focus at work.
- Waking up the next day with crushing “hangxiety”, wishing you hadn’t drunk that last drink or two.
The point is: alcohol affects us all differently. The consequences aren’t always dramatic or visible. Sometimes they’re subtle—simmering under the surface of your wellbeing and chipping away at how you feel day to day.
It’s About Your Relationship With Alcohol
Problem drinking isn’t just about addiction or frequency—it’s about your relationship with alcohol. Ask yourself:
- How do I feel before I drink?
- What am I hoping alcohol will fix or enhance?
- Do I like the version of myself that shows up after a drink or two?
If your answer gives you pause, that’s important information to consider. You don’t have to call yourself an alcoholic or even say you drink “too much” to reflect on whether alcohol is serving or sabotaging you.
Time to Rethink the Labels
Let’s move away from rigid definitions and start thinking more personally and compassionately. Redefining what problem drinking means for you personally allows more people to step back and honestly assess their habits without shame.
That’s what this series has been about—not judgement, but awareness and reflection.
If this message resonates with you, or you think someone else might benefit, please feel free to share it.
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