People across Sefton are being encouraged to take a moment to think about their relationship with alcohol during this year’s Alcohol Awareness Week.

Alcohol and me

Alcohol Awareness Week takes place from Monday 6^th to Sunday 12th July. This year’s theme of Alcohol and me asks people to reflect on the role alcohol plays in their lives and how it may affect their health, wellbeing and relationships.

Alcohol is often linked to special occasions and celebrations, but it can also become a normal part of daily life.

Alcohol Change UK says around 10 million people in the UK regularly drink levels of alcohol that could harm their health and wellbeing.

Alcohol can affect sleep, energy levels, mood and mental health. And, over time, drinking too much can also increase the risk of serious health conditions. These can include liver disease, high blood pressure, stroke and some cancers.

Check in on our drinking habits

Dr Rory McGill, Sefton Council’s Director of Public Health said: “The theme of Alcohol Awareness Week, Alcohol and me theme urges us to check in on our drinking habits in the same way they look after other parts of their health.

“Many of us such as attend check-ups for our teeth, eye-sight blood pressure and cholesterol and make changes as a result. Alcohol Change UK's free and confidential Check your drinking quiz is a similar check-up on our relationship with alcohol.

“It helps us understand our drinking patterns and decide whether they would like to make any changes.”

Support in Sefton

Anyone in Sefton who is concerned about their own drinking, drug use, or the substance use of someone close to them can access support from Change Grow Live Sefton.

Change Grow Live Sefton provides free and confidential support for adults, young people and families in a safe and non-judgemental environment.

Change Grow Live Sefton offers help to reduce, stop or stay safe with alcohol or drug use, including support for your physical and mental health. It provides advice for families and carers and guidance for anyone worried about someone else's alcohol or substance use.

Find out more about Change Grow Live in Sefton. 

A conversation about options

Dr McGill continued: “Whether we are starting to question our drinking, want advice about alcohol or drugs, or simply need a conversation about their options, the Change Grow Live Sefton team is ready to help.

“You don’t need a referral. You can just contact them directly on 0151 203 9755 or visit their website at www.changegrowlive.org/sefton where you can chat confidentially online.

“It’s a place to talk through concerns, explore options and find out more about the support available and can provide help before problems become more serious.

“Support is tailored to each individual, with no pressure and no one-size-fits-all approach.”

What role is alcohol playing in my life?

Dr Richard Piper, Chief Executive of Alcohol Change UK, said: "Alcohol is often presented to us as the backdrop to all the moments that matter, from celebrations, sporting events, socialising, relaxing after a stressful day and even quiet nights at home.

“That can make it difficult to step back and ask ourselves honestly: what role is alcohol actually playing in my life and am I happy about it?

"This Alcohol Awareness Week, we want to create space for more open, supportive and judgement-free conversations about alcohol and encourage people to take a few minutes to check in with their drinking.

“For some people, that might simply mean finding out where they are with their relationship with alcohol. For others, it might prompt changes such as cutting back a little, trying some alcohol-free days or reaching out for support."

Find out more about Change Grow Live in Sefton.