Why do some people find it difficult to control their drinking?

Clever marketing has often linked alcohol to confidence and fun, conditioning many to view it as a shortcut to relaxation. For some, a couple of drinks may suffice, but for others, alcohol creates a cycle of craving that is hard to break—not due to weakness, but because alcohol is designed to work this way. Many people may not identify with the stereotype of an “alcoholic,” often viewing it as someone who has lost everything, yet many functioning individuals rely on alcohol to cope.

Quitting drinking is not merely about willpower; it can deeply intertwine with a person’s identity and social life. Influential figures like Bradley Cooper, Florence Welch, and Anthony Hopkins illustrate that recognising alcohol’s negative impact can lead to life-changing sobriety.

In the UK, alcohol misuse incurs significant costs, including approximately £3.4 billion in healthcare, up to £1.5 billion in crime-related expenses, and £3.5 billion in lost productivity, totalling an estimated £21 billion to £30 billion annually.

Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) offers a psychological approach that addresses the root causes of alcohol misuse. RTT helps clients reprogram negative beliefs about alcohol, enhancing self-awareness and coping strategies. Many report it as life-changing, allowing them to control their intake or enjoy alcohol in moderation, thus reclaiming their mornings and self-respect. RTT focuses on tailored support for those struggling with their drinking habits.

 

References:
Public Health England (2022): Reports on alcohol-related health.
Drinkaware (2022): Summaries of societal and economic impacts of alcohol misuse.
Home Office (2022): Crime-related costs associated with alcohol.