Alcohol is a part of many of our lives. We use it for celebration, for comfort, to socialise, to wind down, to cope. We treat it differently to all other drugs; it’s legal, socially acceptable, even encouraged.

Yet in the UK one person every hour dies as a result of alcohol. Alcohol harm - from mental health problems, liver disease, one of seven forms of cancer, economic difficulties, and so much more, which can affect any one of us, from any walk of life, and the harm does not end with the individual.

Alcohol Change UK are not anti-alcohol; but are working for a future in which people drink as a conscious choice, not a default; where the issues which lead to alcohol problems; like poverty, life stresses, mental health issues, trauma, and homelessness – are addressed. Where those of us who drink too much, and our loved ones, have access to high-quality support whenever we need it, without shame or stigma.

My brother and I sadly lost our Dad in 2018 from alcohol-related health issues. Dad became addicted to alcohol gradually over many years following the death of our little brother Paul, which left our young family (Dad 30yrs & Mum 28yrs) very broken. We all did our best to create a new life without Paul, but Dad struggled to overcome the trauma and alcohol became an escape from his demons.

As a family it was an unspoken rule that we did not disclose this to others or the negative impact it was having upon us. Sadly no amount of family love or support could break the hold alcohol had over Dad.

I turn fifty in July and I finally feel ready to raise awareness of alcohol harm, sharing a little of my family trauma without shame, and my big brother kindly agreed to join me. 💗

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Alcohol harm and addiction is a complex problem, therefore the solutions are not simple.

Thank you for your support!!

Love Cara & Ian

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