From abstinence to ‘grey-area drinking,’ why alcohol habits aren’t a black-and-white issue
How to Support a Loved One in Drinking Less
As we enter a new year, many Canadians are taking on the challenge of Dry January after indulging in holiday festivities filled with cheers and drinks. However, authors Maureen Palmer and Mike Pond believe that the way we approach problem drinking may not always be helpful.
The traditional view that abstinence is the only acceptable goal for those struggling with alcohol may not be the most effective approach. Palmer, in her recent book “You Don’t Have to Quit,” explores the idea that a person’s relationship with alcohol is complex and nuanced. She believes that understanding the grey area between moderate drinking and alcohol use disorder could offer better solutions for some individuals.
Pond, a therapist specializing in addiction, has firsthand experience with these strategies as he battled alcohol dependence for five decades. He emphasizes the importance of viewing setbacks as part of a journey rather than a failure. This perspective contrasts with the traditional belief that any slip-up means starting over from square one.
One term used to describe this middle ground is grey-area drinking, where individuals drink more than recommended limits but do not meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder. This term carries less social stigma than being labeled as an alcoholic, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of problematic drinking behavior.
Dr. Catharine Fairbairn, an alcohol research expert, points out that even moderate alcohol use carries risks, and a single night of heavy drinking can lead to various issues. Dr. Evan Wood, an addiction medicine specialist, emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to alcohol use disorder. While some may benefit from total sobriety, others may find success with a moderation-focused approach.
Palmer and Pond draw on the research of Dr. William Miller, who found that a significant portion of individuals who reduced their drinking saw positive outcomes. In some cases, moderation can eventually lead to complete abstinence.
Fairbairn likens moderation to going through a messy breakup, with individuals going through phases of cutting back on alcohol until they ultimately realize it’s not a good match for them. She emphasizes that the process of reducing alcohol consumption can be challenging and may require multiple attempts before achieving success.
Ultimately, any reduction in drinking should be celebrated as a success from both an individual health and public policy perspective. By offering support and understanding to loved ones struggling with alcohol, we can help them navigate their journey towards healthier drinking habits.
