Is Alcohol Really Worth It? Rethinking the Cultural Normalisation of Drinking

When was the last time you celebrated a birthday, a promotion, or even a "just because" gathering without alcohol? For many people in the UK, that scenario is almost unimaginable. Alcohol has been deeply woven into the cultural fabric of our society, almost like a reflexive backdrop to joy, celebration, sorrow, stress and everything in between. But is this "normal" relationship with alcohol as harmless as it seems?

Recent statistics paint a sobering picture. According to the Office for National Statistics, in 2023, 78% of adults in Great Britain reported drinking alcohol within the previous week. And it's not just casual drinking; nearly one in five adults consume more than 14 units of alcohol per week, surpassing the government's "low risk" drinking guidelines. Yet, this consistent and often heavy consumption is rarely questioned.

From gifting a bottle of wine for a birthday to popping champagne for anniversaries, alcohol isn't just accepted - it's expected. Peer pressure, subtle or overt, urges us to "just have one" or "live a little." Somehow, alcohol has become synonymous with fun, relaxation, and celebration.

But is it truly serving us?

Beyond the glittering marketing campaigns and cosy pub scenes, alcohol takes a significant toll on health - one that many choose to ignore. Regular consumption, even at "moderate" levels, can dramatically increase the risk of a host of serious health issues…