Viva Brighton Issue #57 November 2017

ADVERTORIAL
Millions are spent every year persuading us to
consume our favourite drug. Positive advertising
images are all around us, however alcohol also has
its darker side. 75% of all children in care are placed
there due to their parents’ alcohol problems, it is a
major factor in most road traffic accident deaths and
it increases the risk of cancers, heart disease and
strokes. How to spot when alcohol is becoming a
problem and how to access help is a challenge.
Alcohol creates a feeling of wellbeing, warmth and
relaxation so there is a major draw to consume more.
However, repeated exposure of the brain to recurrent
doses of ethanol produces progressive changes
in brain functioning. Safe drinking guidelines have
been reduced to 14 units per week for both men
and women, but drinking above these limits doesn’t
necessarily mean you have a problem. It usually takes
many years of heavy bouts of drinking to develop a
serious alcohol problem and 40% of an individual’s
risk is determined by genes, so those with a strong
family history of addictions need to take special care.
Early warning signs can be subtle, thinking more
frequently about drinking alcohol or changes in
behaviour so that drinking becomes a preferred
pastime, can be early signs. Increasing tolerance
or frequently using alcohol to relax can precede
more serious dependency. If your drinking has led
to accidents or you are simply spending increasing
amounts of time either drinking or recovering from
the after effects of drinking, this can indicate that it is
time to make changes. It often takes several years of
problem drinking before a more serious dependency
develops. The dependent drinker usually develops
some degree of denial of the problem, kidding
themselves that they can stop if they wish, whilst
those around them know that this may not be true.
Memory blackouts or continuing drinking despite
negative consequences (arguments, days off work
etc.) are worrying signs.
It is important to spot problem drinking early to
make changes or seek appropriate advice. There are
specialised therapeutic interventions (motivational
interviewing) that can help the early problem
drinker make changes, and underlying mental health
problems may need additional treatment. There are
new medications available for the dependent drinker
and specialised treatment can restore health and
wellbeing.
Dr Richard Bowskill. Consultant Psychiatrist -
Addictions Lead at the Brighton & Hove Clinic.
The clinic offers a FREE Confidential assessment
with an addictions therapist. If you would like
to speak to one of our experts today, please call
01273 282045.
Brighton & Hove Clinic, 14-18 New Church Road, Hove BN3 4FH