When it comes to coping with stress, many people turn to alcohol as temporary escapism. The problem arises however, when alcohol consumption daily becomes the norm. As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, more women have been consuming alcohol in excess amounts, leading to an almost crisis.
Whether you have found that your alcohol reliance has altered over the past year or so, or you are already facing addiction, NADclinic can help. Our addiction detox programme is designed to help individuals overcome their addictions and lead healthier lifestyles.
Alcohol consumption statistics in women
Life significantly slowed down during the year of the lockdown periods due to breaks from work, long periods at home, and fewer social activities. COVID-19 brought about significant changes and with it feelings of prolonged stress, anxiety, grief, and loss.
The emotional impact of the pandemic on women has been particularly alarming and it’s clear to see why alcohol consumption has increased among these individuals.
In the U.S. National Pandemic Emotional Impact Report, it was revealed that when compared to men, more women reported pandemic-related changes in productivity, sleep, mood, health concerns, and frustrations with a lack of freedom to enjoy life.
The impact of drinking on physical and mental health
While most people are highly aware that excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact both physical and mental health, not all of the facts are widely known.
Here are just some of the ways that drinking alcohol on a daily basis may be affecting your body’s health:
- Increased blood pressure
- Higher cholesterol levels
- Weakened immune system
- Weight gain
- More headaches
- Inability to concentrate or focus
- Lack of judgement
- Vomiting
- Alcohol poisoning
- Liver failure
- Higher risk of getting cancer
- Worsened symptoms of anxiety and depression
- More irritability
As you can see from the list above, there are many reasons why you should consider cutting down on alcohol use, especially if it’s become the norm to drink.
With this said, it’s important to look at how you can realistically tackle your alcohol consumption habits. Since alcoholism is in itself an addiction, stopping altogether suddenly can often pose more of a risk to addicts.
Tackling alcohol consumption in women
Women’s consumption of alcohol was on the rise even before the pandemic. Since women are more likely to suffer from mental health issues, like depression and anxiety, with 1 in 5 of them being diagnosed compared to 1 in 8 of the men, they need a greater amount of counselling and support.
Many mental health charities in the U.K. are working hard to offer help to women suffering from alcoholism. From schemes such as the Women Side by Side and movements such as #TalkWomensHealth which has seen the government calling for evidence to better understand women’s mental health, this brings about hope for tackling alcoholism in women associated with mental health conditions.
Getting help for an alcohol addiction
No matter your gender, if you have been turning to alcohol more than usual during the pandemic, it is essential to get help before your health is permanently affected.
At the NADclinic, we can help you overcome addiction to alcohol through our addiction detox programme which utilises revolutionary NAD+ IV therapy alongside the support of expert clinicians. A complimentary initial consultation will help you to decide whether this is the right therapy route for your needs.
If you are in immediate need of help with your addiction, the NHS in the U.K. offers free support. We recommend contacting your GP or the NHS advice line on 111 to speak to an advisor who can assist.
