Breaking the COVID drinking habit

Have you found yourself drinking more during the pandemic?

Well, you’re not alone. 

A new survey by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation found that 12 percent of Australians are now consuming alcohol on a daily basis, and other Australians who did not drink regularly before, have picked up the habit.

And while we know that drinking alcohol won’t eliminate COVID-19 or ease our restrictions faster, did you know? Experts say it is understandable people are having the odd drink more, the important thing is to make sure we don’t get trapped by our new habits.

• Not drinking alcohol, or drinking no more than two standard drinks a day, is a great way to maintain good health.
• Consuming alcohol increases your risk of disease and injury, reduces your immunity and limits your ability to fight off (coronavirus) infections.
• Levels of anxiety can actually increase the day after drinking alcohol. To reduce stress and anxiety, try connecting with friends and family online over a cuppa, exercising or meditating.
• Alcohol can reduce the quality of your sleep. To ensure a goodnight’s rest, avoid alcohol or have no more than two standard drinks on any day you drink.

So as we start to ease out of our restrictions, maybe it’s time to ease out of our new drinking habits formed over lockdown?

For tips and insights, visit the ADF website https://www.littlehabit.com.au/ and don’t let a little habit form into a big problem.  

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