Help for people drinking too much during lockdown in the East Riding

There's help for people in the East Riding who have found themselves drinking too much during lockdown.

It comes from the Health Trainers in the county who say alcohol consumption is expected to be at all time high during the second lockdown.

It says research commissioned by charity Alcohol Change UK found that more than a quarter of people interviewed (28%), who drink alcohol, said they were drinking more during lockdown.

It says with lockdown 2.0 looming over the nation during the winter months, it is expected that these figures are likely to increase further as a result of the challenging times ahead.

Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust’s YOURhealth team wants residents in the East Riding to know that they are here to help. Their alcohol service works to help support you into looking at ways to reduce your weekly intake and receive further help if necessary.

With Alcohol Awareness Week just around the corner on 16th November, it says now is a great opportunity for the East Riding to get thinking about drinking and how they can stay healthy this winter.

The Health Trainers say the theme for this year’s awareness week is ‘alcohol and mental health’, which is fitting given that 19% of drinkers stated they’re drinking more during lockdown, as a way to handle stress and anxiety.

During Alcohol Awareness Week, the YOURhealth team aims to highlight the link between alcohol and mental health, and the best ways to look after our selves during this year of great change and uncertainty.

It says around 1 in 4 people in the UK experience a mental health problem each year and drinking too much, or too often, can increase risk. Many may be unaware of the link between alcohol and poor mental health, despite it often being the first thing we turn to when we’re feeling low, stressed, worried or unable to cope.

Natalie Belt, YOURhealth Service Manager, said:

“Although alcohol might feel like a way to appease anxieties and feelings of worry during a time when we are anxious about our jobs, finances, and lack of socialising, it can ultimately have a detrimental impact on our mental health and wellbeing.

"If you are struggling with your wellbeing at the moment, we encourage you to find other ways to cope.”

Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust’s YOURhealth Prevention and Lifestyle Services are available to support, motivate and guide you. They’re free and available 7 days a week to all East Riding residents looking to improve their relationship with alcohol and their mental health.

To find out more:

Text Healthy to 60163

Call: 0800 9177752

Email: hnf-tr.healthtrainers@nhs.net

Website: www.nhs-health-trainers.co.uk