MHM Magazine

alcohol but carry on drinking, that indicates a problem. Other red flags include seeking out social situations that involve alcohol - for example, going to the movies would only be fun for a person if they go for drinks afterwards. You may also notice a pattern in a person’s behaviours, such as spending most weekends drinking heavily and recovering from hangovers. SEVEN QUESTIONS FOR SELF- REFLECTION Alcohol addiction can stem from common mental health issues, varying from low self-esteem and stress to trauma, isolation or a genetic predisposition. These mental health issues can be the cause of binge drinking and other forms of alcoholism, and they can also be a result of alcohol abuse. Getting oneself or a loved one out of this vicious cycle requires a holistic approach because drinking is not the only problem – there’s a reason for it. Starting by assessing balance in their overall lifestyle and asking them these questions: 1. Are they looking after their body consistently with physical exercise and healthy eating? 2. Does their work make them happy, or is it time for a change? 3. Do they have a hobby where they are developing skills or a passion that fulfils them? 4. Do they avoid thinking about unresolved past issues or spend a lot of time and energy revisiting them? 5. Are they struggling to cope with stressors in my life? 6. Are they connecting regularly and face-to-face with people who bring them joy? 7. Where are they with their life’s goals? Taking a step back and looking at their life in this way may help them to start having a better sense of why they are binge drinking. If they are drinking heavily on a regular basis, seeking help from a mental health professional is crucial. DON’T PASS IT DOWN Parents need to be hyper-aware that if their kids regularly see them consuming several drinks at social events, it becomes normal to them and can easily turn into a learned behaviour that they go on to practise. If the patient does have an alcohol addiction problem, it’s equally important for their children to see their parents dealing with it in a healthy way, as this forms part of how they learn to value themselves. Adolescents are at a particularly vulnerable age where they can be influenced by friends and want to fit in, which can lead to the start of alcohol and other substance abuse disorders, such as binge drinking. While experimentation at this age is normal, they also need help to reflect on who they want to become and envisioning themselves with a sense of hope and positivity for the future. Parents who notice sudden changes of behaviour in their children should consider seeking professional help to address potential issues early on. Netcare Akeso Stepping Stones is a specialised mental health and addiction facility offering care and treatment for alcohol, drug, and behavioural addictions. In any mental health emergency, or for advice in accessing mental health care, reach out for support. Netcare Akeso offers a 24-hour crisis line on 0861 435 787. References available on request. MHM | 2024 | Volume 11 | Issue 4 | Don’t lose balance to binge drinking - Seven Questions for Self-Reflection MHM www.prycision.com THE SOLUTION SPECIALISTS Trust MHM’s design and marketing solutionists to get you Branded We offer a full service solution for all your design, digital, e-commerce and printing needs. Bespoke solutions for small and large companies. Graphic Design | Web Development | Labels | Event Management | Marketing | Social Media | Gifting 22 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 2024 | Is ue 4 H