After smoking, alcoholism kills more people in the UK than any other drug, and according to Government statistics, one adult in 13 needs alcohol help. Add to this the fact that in the UK, 33,000 people die each year due to alcohol-related incidents or associated health problems and there is an urgent need for us to be asking ourselves ‘how much is too much’ when it comes to drink?
Sue Allchurch, director of Linwood Group, continues: "It is very difficult for anyone to acknowledge that they have need help for a drinking problem as there is so much shame attached to the condition. Here at Linwood, we have developed the traffic light system, which helps people to quickly understand what is and isn’t acceptable when it comes to alcohol intake. It not only helps people to identify if they or a loved one needs alcoholic help, but it also encourages them to move from denial into reality about this area of their life. The sooner a person can acknowledge that they have a problem and need help, the better their chances for a successful recovery".
The Traffic Light System for Drinking
Green: Safe drinking
Government guidelines for safe drinking suggest that 21 units for a man and 14 units per week for a woman are safe. These should be spaced over a week and not consumed in one or two sessions. The measurement of a unit of drink is suggested as being half a pint of beer, a glass of wine or a pub measure of spirits (however, be aware that a half pint of beer can contain 3.5 units of alcohol in special beers).
Amber: Unsafe drinking
This is when you are taking in more than the recommended amount on a regular basis and may be starting to show the early physical or emotional consequences of this. If challenged about your drinking, you would strongly reject having a problem, after all ‘you deserve a drink’ and ‘all my friends do this as well’. At this level of drinking, you are more likely to show some blood chemical changes due to the high alcohol intake. The enzyme in the liver, which deals with alcohol will be elevated as the liver is under some strain.
Red: Dangerous drinking
This is when you are at high risk of physical and emotional damage. You drink even when you know it is not safe and at levels way above the safe limits. Your friends and family have warned you and you may have already experienced difficulties at work, home or even with the police. Your blood tests would show signs of dangerous drinking. It is vital that you have the courage to admit and confront your drinking at this stage. Being too proud or ashamed to admit you need help could cost you your life.
Road to recovery
If you or a loved one recognises yourself in the ‘Amber’ or ‘Red’ stages of a drinking pattern, what should you do next? "Seeking professional help and advice is the next step on the road to recovery" continues Sue Allchurch. "Here at Linwood Group, we operate a freephone number for all those who are concerned about their own, or a loved ones, drink or drug related issues. It is a way to gain expert advice in complete confidentiality."