Keeping your alcohol consumption in check during lockdown
Alcohol is a drug that affects your body — how you think, feel and behave. Drinking too much can affect your health and disrupt your life.
Throughout lockdown have you been more inclined to consume alcohol on the regular? Well, you’re not alone! You’re stuck at home, you’re stressed, and you’ve got a cupboard full of booze. It’s tempting to drink more than usual during the coronavirus lockdown – there’s a communal sense that we “deserve it” for getting through this tough time, right?
But according to the World Health Organisation, alcohol consumption contributes to 3 million deaths each year globally as well as to the disabilities and poor health of millions of people. Overall, harmful use of alcohol is responsible for 5.1% of the global burden of disease.
A recent media release has announced the Australian Government’s additional $6 million to support drug and alcohol services during COVID-19.
The funding will be provided urgently to allow online and phone counselling, and information services to meet additional demand caused by isolation and social distancing measures.
The funding will also provide a range of information and resources to help individuals, friends and families with drug and alcohol concerns, and to provide important prevention messages.
What better time than to check in on your alcohol intake.
Ask yourself these questions:
- How much are you drinking;
- Why are you drinking;
- What are you drinking; and
- Is it starting to have an impact on your health and wellbeing?
Whether you drink daily or only on special occasions, it’s a good idea to track your alcohol consumption.
The Australian Government guidelines on how much alcohol you can consume to reduce your health risks:
- Healthy adults should drink no more than 10 standard drinks in a week, and no more than 4 on any one day.
- Children and young people under 18, pregnant women and women planning to become pregnant should not drink any alcohol.
- It is safest for breastfeeding women to not drink alcohol, to protect the health of their baby.
How much is in your glass?
You can find out how many standard drinks you’re really drinking in a typical glass by using this clever tool. A standard drink size will surprise you!
If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s alcohol or other drug use, reach out for help. The Family Doctors Plus team are here and can help you manage your alcohol consumption. To book in for a non-judgemental consultation with your doctor, please call us on 07 33578192 or book your appointment online. You can also contact the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015, or visit drughelp.gov.au for further information.
