My Problem With Alcohol

We don’t have to hit rock bottom for alcohol to be a problem. Any level of alcohol can carry consequences.

For some, the consequences don’t stack up, are minimal, or worth it. But for me, they weren’t.

We rarely question why people drink, but not drinking always feels like it requires an explanation ~ so here is mine.

~I wasn’t drowning in debt, but spending money on partying left me unable to build any real savings or give me any financial freedom.

~I had boundaries and didn’t drink the night before work, but I got caught up on the anticipation of the weekend, and would often drink to excess.

~I didn’t spend all my time and money on alcohol, but I prioritised nights out over experiences, travel and outdoor adventures.

~I had hobbies and interests, but I didn’t back myself or go all in on them because I didn’t have the patience, motivation or discipline.

~I didn’t black out when I drank, but I’d be sick, feel anxious the next day, and often regret how much I’d consumed the night before.

~I didn’t drink to cope with stress every day, but when I did, it stopped me from dealing with my emotions in a healthier way.

~I wasn’t completely neglecting my health, but hangovers kept me from exercising more, eating better, and prioritising my wellness.

~I could moderate alcohol and wasn’t dependent, but I relied on it to enjoy nights out and feel more confident in social settings.

~I had a career I cared about, but alcohol had an impact on my productivity, career growth, and overall drive. Alcohol kept me stuck in third gear.

~I didn’t ruin relationships, but I said or did things while drunk that didn’t align with my values and the person I wanted to be.

At Arclett, we're trying to reframe sobriety and challenge the age old norm of alcohol as the default.

We want to shift the conversation from 'Why don't you drink?' to 'Why is drinking the expectation, the standard, and the norm?