Having a stiff drink is one of the most sociable things we can do, and most
One to Many Does not Mean Happiness
people enjoy alcohol responsibly as part of their natural social routine. However, there can be no denying that the lure of alcohol when we are feeling stressed or miserable becomes pretty strong. A stiff drink provides a fuzzy feeling which temporarily distracts us from the cold hard facts of life, offering a temporary reprieve from whatever issues we are trying to cope with.
Since the beginning of time, humans and alcohol have had an inseparable partnership. From Roman times to Communion wine right through to ‘wetting the baby’s head’ at a Christening, drinking has been a part of our history, culture and society. People who are totally against drinking are often encouraged to take a drink, if only because non-drinkers are regarded as being boring, and people who drink like to see others around them joining in with the fun.
A new report has been issued recently which suggests that:
- 1 in 4 adults are drinking at hazardous levels
- 1 in 10 men are on the verge of alcoholism
- 1 in 6 women drink at levels sufficient to damage their liver or lead to depression
- 1 in 10 men and 1 in 25 women are approaching alcohol dependence (admittedly rather vague terminology).
These figures are interesting, especially the bit about drinking leading to depression. Despite the hilarity of getting completely drunk on an evening out, or the quiet pleasure involved with drinking wine with a good film, alcohol is essentially a depressant. This is a difficult concept for most of us to grasp, as we associate drinking with boisterous behaviour, laughter and a relaxing of inhibitions. In today’s society, it’s all too easy to turn to drink to escape the stresses of the economy, work, or life in general.
The problem with drinking to help us deal with our issues is that the act of drinking in itself can lead to more hassle. We may do or say things which we regret, or feel guilty that we lost ourselves in a bottle of wine rather than facing up to our problems. However you look at it, drinking is never a great solution when it comes to finding lasting happiness.
I’m not saying that having a few drinks isn’t a great way of unwinding and relaxing. Red wine is good for the heart, and no-one is suggesting that drinking in moderation is anything other than positive. The trick is to steer clear of drinking if you are feeling low, because alcohol acts to compound any feelings of sadness you may have, making you ultimately feel much worse. Not to mention hangovers!
If you feel that drinking is detracting from, rather than helping you to find the secret of happiness, perhaps it’s time to sit down and revaluate your approach to it. Like a great cake is only good with a small amount of icing, so a great life is only good with a small amount of drink!
I have done a lot of research on drinking and what it doesn’t do for your happiness, due to the fact that my father was a weekend alcoholic and I have siblings that are alcoholics. If you have more questions on this subject leave them in the comment area below and I will be more than happy to help. Alcohol is something that takes away the happiness for the whole family not just the person doing the heavy drinking.
To your happiness within for just a few drinks for a little relaxation!
Debbie
