Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health coverage, highlights the warning signs that your holiday drinking may spiral out of control.

The holiday season is filled with celebrations, gatherings, and often more drinking than usual. For many, a glass of wine or a cocktail is simply part of the festivities. But for some, holiday drinking can slip into overindulgence, leading to habits that may stick around long after the season ends.

“Holiday drinking often increases due to stress, more frequent social gatherings, and a relaxed ‘holiday spirit’ that encourages indulgence. According to StatsSA, the holiday period sees a marked increase in alcohol-related accidents and incidents,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.

Recognising the signs of problems with drinking earlier can make a big difference in preventing long-term health consequences.

What Makes Holiday Drinking Different?

The holiday season’s unique social and emotional pressures can make it challenging to recognise when drinking becomes excessive. The combination of family stress, work pressures, and social gatherings can contribute to what is often called “binge drinking”, defined as consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short time.

Warning Signs of Holiday Drinking Becoming Problematic

The festive environment may make recognising the warning signs of problematic drinking harder. However, paying attention to specific behaviours can help. Key warning signs include:

• Drinking More Than Intended: If you often plan to have one or two drinks but feel you must continue to a certain point, this may indicate a problem.
• Drinking to Cope with Stress: Many people turn to alcohol as a way to “relax” or “take the edge off” during the holidays, but relying on alcohol for stress relief can be a sign of misuse.
• Increased Tolerance: If it takes more drinks to feel the effects of alcohol, this could signal developing tolerance, which is often a step towards dependence.
• Skipping Responsibilities: Frequently choosing to attend social gatherings involving drinking over responsibilities such as work, family, or personal commitments may be a sign of escalating alcohol misuse.
• Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms: If you feel symptoms such as shakiness, sweating, nausea, or irritability when you haven’t been drinking, this could indicate dependence.

Why Excessive Holiday Drinking is a Concern

Alcohol misuse during the holiday season can have both immediate and long-term health effects. From a short-term perspective, increased alcohol consumption can lead to issues including impaired judgment, increased risk of accidents, and even alcohol poisoning.

Simple Strategies to Keep Holiday Drinking in Check

Awareness is the first step to managing holiday drinking. Here are some strategies that can help you enjoy social gatherings without overindulging:

1. Set Personal Limits: Decide on a limit before drinking and stick to it. If you’re attending multiple events, consider alternating between non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks.
2. Practice Mindful Drinking: Pay attention to each drink. Sip slowly, savour the flavours, and try to notice the effects on your body. Mindful drinking can help you stay aware of when you’re reaching your limit.
3. Have Alcohol-Free Days: Schedule days without alcohol to avoid developing a dependency. This will help your body reset and keep your tolerance levels in check.
4. Plan Activities that Don’t Centre on Drinking: Suggest group activities that don’t involve alcohol, like holiday movie nights or hiking.
5. Recognise and Manage Stress Triggers: Holidays can be stressful, and identifying what’s causing stress can prevent the urge to drink. Practice other stress-relief techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation, or physical activity.

Getting Support for Problem Drinking

If you happen to be concerned that your holiday drinking may be out of control, there are resources available for support. Contact the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) for treatment programmes. Friends and family can play a role, too. If you’re concerned about someone else’s drinking habits, offer to be a supportive resource. Encourage them to seek help if they show signs of problematic drinking.

Know When to Seek Help

If you notice signs of alcohol misuse or dependence, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Warning signs that may indicate a need for intervention include an inability to control drinking, experiencing withdrawal symptoms, or neglecting important responsibilities due to drinking. There are several treatment options available, from counselling to residential programmes, that can provide the necessary tools for managing alcohol use.

In Summary

The holiday season should be a time of joy and celebration, not a period of increased health risks from alcohol misuse. By being aware of the warning signs, recognising your triggers, and taking steps to manage drinking, you can enjoy the festivities in a balanced, healthy way.

About Affinity Health

Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading health coverage provider, offering you a range of options at affordable rates, including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.