A Coach’s Guide to How Drinking Less Can Have a Positive Mental Impact
Research by Mental Health Foundation UK shows “Alcohol is a depressant, which can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in your brain and affect your feelings, thoughts, and behaviour.”
Studies also show people who drink alcohol are more likely to develop mental health problems. In the UK alone, around one in three people (32%) now semi-regularly drink low and no alcohol products compared to one in four in 2020.
It can reduce negative feelings
Did you know that regular, heavy drinking can interfere with the brain chemicals that are vital for good mental health? Due to this, reducing alcohol intake can positively impact mental health. This is not to say that all mental health concerns can be improved by just cutting out alcohol, but alcohol can play a big role in making anxiety and depression worse.
Research by Drinkaware shows most people can see an improvement in their anxiety levels within just a few weeks of cutting down their alcohol intake. Take control of your alcohol intake by using our Best-You Self-Assessment Tool. Using this feature will help you better understand your relationship with alcohol, and show where you stand against healthy guidelines in around two minutes.
It can increase your energy
One of our specialist Health Coaches here at Healthy Lifestyles, Beth mentions that alcohol dehydrates your body as your body loses around 4 times the amount of liquids that you consumed in alcohol. Therefore, a more hydrated body gives you more energy to tackle the day, and you can engage in activities that will improve your mental health like going for daily walks.
Check out some tips for getting physically active from the mental health charity, Mind here. According to the NHS, even just a brisk 10-minute walk can help you relax and switch off when things feel overwhelming. Use the Best-You Alcohol Deck to find out about the immediate benefits, and the longer-term benefits of cutting down on your alcohol intake.
It can improve your sleep
Although you may think alcohol can get you off to sleep quicker, it actually reduces the quality and length of sleep. By reducing alcohol consumption, you are more likely to get a better night’s sleep, leaving you less irritable and with greater energy levels.
For those of us who struggle to sleep, having a few drinks later in the evening can help to wind down and make us feel tired. If this is part of your routine, try swapping alcohol for warm milky drinks and a hot bath to see if this has the desired effect.
One of our expert Health Coaches here at Healthy Lifestyles, Dan, says: “Contrary to popular belief, alcohol might help you doze off faster, but it doesn't promote quality or length of sleep. Reducing alcohol can lead to better rest, leaving you less irritable and more energised.”
Use the Best-You Alcohol Group for more health coach-led tips on managing your alcohol intake, and to connect with others who understand the journey first-hand.
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