Shock Figures Highlight Prevalence Of Alcohol-Related Problems, UK

Main Category: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs
Article Date: 12 Nov 2009 - 21:00 PDT

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Millions of people across the UK could be putting themselves at risk of alcohol related violence, casual sex or blackouts, according to an ICM poll carried out on behalf of the Priory Group.

61% of people questioned had been adversely affected following a night's heavy drinking.

The most common occurrence was not being able to remember what had happened the night before.

The research shows that alcohol can negatively affect behaviour in a number of ways:-

- 30% of people admitted to being unable to function properly at work or college the day after a drinking session
- Over a quarter of people had had an argument with their spouse or partner fuelled by alcohol and 4% of people had actually ended a relationship
- Almost one in four men had been injured or involved in an alcohol-fuelled fight
- Violence was most common amongst those aged 25 - 34 years with 43% admitting to either being injured or involved in violence
- 16% of women had been injured or involved in an alcohol-fuelled fight
- 21% of people had taken a day off to recover from a hangover
- 21% of people had sent a text or made a phone call they later regretted
- 20% of people had lost personal belongings such as wallet, keys or purse
- 6% of men and 3% of women had woken up with someone they couldn't remember
- Scotland has the most promiscuous drinkers with 10% admitting to waking up with someone who they could not remember
- Older people are not immune to the problems of excessive drinking with 40% of those questioned having suffered some form of issue caused by drinking too much

Dr Mark Collins, consultant at the Priory Group said: "These are shocking revelations, reinforcing the fact that the excessive or inappropriate consumption of alcohol is a massive social and public health problem.

"The misuse of alcohol can lead to a wide variety of very distressing consequences as has been shown by this survey.

"Alcohol is seen as a social pastime in today's society and excess drinking, particularly over the weekend, is considered acceptable by many. Drunken behaviour is often viewed in a humorous light. However, the consequences can be anything but funny.

"There is no doubt that alcohol is a harmful drug. It damages both mental and physical health, creates problems for society and is the cause of much violence. It is becoming increasingly apparent that drastic measures need to be taken to address these problems, at national and local level.

"The most important thing is recognising and understanding that you have a problem with alcohol and wanting to do something about it. What may start off as harmless fun can soon escalate to something more serious, particularly if it becomes a regular occurrence."

"Anyone worried about their drinking habits should seek advice and support from their GP in the first instance. If necessary, GPs can refer you to centres like ours for further assessment and help."

Source
The Priory Group

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