Calculating the cost of alcohol at Christmas

Everyone knows that the Christmas period is an expensive time of year even more so due to the rising cost of living, we can begin to feel the pinch in terms of finances. If you are struggle with problematic alcohol use this could lead to an even more difficult and stressful time resulting in more use of alcohol. 

Alcohol may also be a cause of financial difficulties at Christmas. If someone is spending more on alcohol, they may not be able to pay their bills, buy gifts or look after themselves or families. This can cause feelings of guilt, shame and embarrassment which could then trigger a person to drink more to cope. Counterintuitively, now may good time to highlight the financial burden of alcohol and use it as a tool to influence choice and begin the path to recovery  

MoneySavingExpert identified many of us are seeking out ways to reduce our spending during this festive period with 52% of people saying they would have to cut back this year and 48% considering it i.e 100% of people have this on their minds.  

When we think about the consequences of drinking alcohol we often focus on the mental and physical health as the main costs and not the financial implications. The cost of alcohol has increased over the last two years, meaning it may be a choice between alcohol and bills, presents, food or possibly entering into debt. 

For people who have a problematic or dependent relationship with alcohol the stress of this time of year can lead to increased drinking and therefore more spending on alcohol… leading to more financial stress, leading to more alcohol use. For many the festive period is a time for fun and socialising but for some it is a time where money is tight and where the expectation to spend to excess can lead them to turn to alcohol to calm to panic about their financial situation. 

It is vital we talk openly about how much alcohol can cost financially and use this as a tool to show people the benefits of cutting down or seeking support. We may see Christmas as a time to avoid talking about alcohol, but it may in fact prove the opposite, a time to highlight the many benefits of cutting down… including the effect it has on the bank balance