This month’s health and lifestyle column from Corinne Yeadon, of the Being Better private therapy practice in Skipton

IT'S the time of year for letting go of what no longer serves us to create space for new growth and development.

Unhelpful habits place restrictions on our lives; this is true of problematic alcohol use, worlds become shrunken. There exists a common view that it is only an issue if there is addiction or physical dependency. When does social or regular drinking cross a line and become habitual or a default for any mood or occasion?

There can be reliance without physical addiction. There are drugs that are readily available, which are considered recreational by many yet have a devastating effect on the individual, families, finances, work and mental health. Problematic use does not always equal excessive or frequent, although can end up that way.

We live in a world where there is stigma attached to excessive drinking but perversely there is also suspicion and discomfort from others attached to abstinence from alcohol, with the exception of Stoptober or Dry January which is deemed acceptable. There can be embarrassment attached to refusing alcohol and a desire to provide a plethora of excuses, justifications and lies for electing not to drink, and to appease others.

As part of preparation for positive change it can help to identify potential barriers and plan for this. Seeing how it goes or leaving things to chance generally leads to reactive decision making which doesn’t always make for the best outcome.

Ironically, there can be a reluctance to declare intentions to change for fear of being viewed as having a serious problem and therefore being viewed differently and not in a positive light.

Declarations of change are best shared with trusted people rather than hollering it from the rooftops with the expectation of global support, praise and applause. When motivation for change is robust goals can be achieved without external support, however commitment can falter.

Specialist therapeutic and recovery support is available both free of charge and privately, it can provide accountability and unconditional positive regard to keep the momentum of change going.