Alcohol awareness week is taking place from the 15th to the 21st November 2021.
Caring for someone who is struggling with alcohol issues can be incredibly difficult.
Heavy drinking can lead to misunderstandings, arguments and fights. When someone is dependent on alcohol they may forget about commitments, miss appointments, get into debt and let loved ones down in other ways. This can result in the breakdown of relationships/friendships.
It can also have a devastating effect on family life.
Drunken behaviour is unpredictable and can be especially frightening for children to witness. Caring for someone who is out of control can be hugely challenging. Trying to do this while also juggling your own needs, family life, work life etc. is a huge undertaking.
Many people have found themselves drinking more during the pandemic to deal with feelings of loneliness and isolation. This has led to an increase in care needs during a time when support for carers has decreased.
Until recently, interventions for harmful drinking have tended to focus on the individual user; however, research has highlighted the vital role that support networks and carers can play in the treatment process. When someone seeks help they are encouraged to work jointly with carers, friends or family to identify each person’s worries and concerns and make sure everyone is supported.
If you are caring for someone who is struggling with alcohol and need some support get in touch.
Places to get help:
Cumbria Alcohol and Drug Advisory Service (CADAS) CADAS works to reduce the harm caused by substance use across Cumbria. Email: contact@cadas.co.uk Phone: 0800 2 54 56 58 (11am-6pm, Mon to Fri) Visit: www.cadas.co.uk
Drinkline Free, confidential helpline for anyone who is concerned about their drinking, or someone else's. Phone: 0300 123 1110 (weekdays 9am–8pm, weekends 11am–4pm)
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Supports the recovery and continued sobriety of individuals. Meetings are available online and in person. Email: help@aamail.org Phone: 0800 917 7650 Visit: www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Al-Anon Offers support to families and friends affected by someone else’s drinking. Phone: 0800 008 6811 Visit: www.al-anonuk.org.uk
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