One in seven Brits estimated to take part in Dry January
According to research by Alcohol Change UK
Research conducted by Alcohol Change UK, the charity behind the Dry January initiative, reveals that almost nine million Brits are keen to sign up to the campaign, with the cost of living crisis influencing their decision.
One in six (16 per cent) of those surveyed said they were drinking more to cope with worries around the crisis, while one in seven (14 per cent) have prioritised purchasing alcohol over essential items, such as groceries.
One in four said they have drunk more in 2022 than 2021, with one in three young adults who drink (36 per cent) citing anxiety after drinking as a factor in them deciding to reduce their alcohol consumption.
During a typical week, British drinkers consume an average of 13.7 units of alcohol, but one in three (30 per cent) drink more than than the maximum 14 units recommended by the UK’s chief medical officers.
Solihull Integrated Addiction Services (SIAS) help individuals in Solihull who are struggling with alcohol, drug or gambling addiction to get the support they need. They are a partnership of organisations, commissioned by Solihull Council.
Simon Glover from SIAS tells us they see an influx in people needing their help in January: "It can sometimes take a few weeks to kick in, and that feeling that they've over indulged, it's causing them problems, they might find it difficult to get up to work.
"It might also be causing problems in their relationship, they're spending too much money and it needs to be addressed."
"It shouldn't just be about stopping drinking but also making healthy changes to your lifestyle in general, including heathy eating and exercise."
If you need help with an addiction, you can contact SIAS here.