Drinking Less isn’t a Phase, it’s a Shift

Britons are drinking less than ever before and what once felt odd is becoming normal

If you’ve been questioning your drinking lately, it’s not just you.

According to a recent report in The Guardian (originally in the FT, but it’s behind a paywall), alcohol consumption in Britain is now at a record low. More people are drinking less (or not at all) than ever before. What was once seen as niche or boring is gradually becoming normal.

For years, drinking has been wrapped up in our identity; how we socialise, relax, celebrate, cope. To opt out often felt like swimming against the tide. But the tide is turning.

Why are people drinking less? The reasons vary, but the themes are:

• People are more aware of the impact alcohol has on their mental health

• Sleep, energy and wellbeing matter more

• The cost of living has made “just one more” less appealing

  
  

And many are asking: is this actually adding to my life?

What’s interesting is that this shift is being driven by curiosity, self-respect and a desire to feel better. But this doesn’t mean everyone is sober.

What has changed is that questioning your drinking is no longer taboo. It’s becoming a sensible, socially acceptable thing to do. If you’ve been waiting for a “right time”… this might be it! And if it feels daunting, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Latching onto a trend is one thing. Making it stick in real life (with busy lives, families social pressure, stress and habits) is another and that’s where support matters.

I work with women who want to go sober in a way that feels realistic; honest conversations, practical tools and space to work out what actually works for you.

If you’ve been watching this shift from the sidelines and wondering if now might be your moment, I’d love to help you explore it.