Are You Drinking Too Much?

I will not name names, but I’ve heard from many of you in the past couple of weeks, “I’ve got to stop drinking.” Seems a fun, boozy summer was had by all, and now we are trying to figure out how to put on the brakes in the midst of the stressful back to school time. I haven’t been too successful, not that I’ve tried very hard. I watched When a Man Loves a Woman last night with a great bottle of Pinot Noir. Perhaps I should’ve seen some of myself in Meg Ryan’s alcoholic character, but truthfully, all I could think was, “Wow. Detox looks hard,” and “Andy Garcia is really cute.” Yes, I have love handles I am affectionately calling Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio, but caloric intake aside, am I drinking too much? Now with carpooling and homework, the fun will naturally curb itself, but I still plan on enjoying an occasional weekday unwind in a glass. How about you?

When should you be concerned?

Doctors are taught the CAGE questionnaire. You can try it on yourself.

C – Have you ever felt the need to Cut down on your drinking?

A – Have you been Annoyed by people criticizing your driving?

G – Do you ever feel Guilty about drinking?

E – Have you ever felt the need for an Eye Opener?

Answering yes to two or more of these questions, is indicative of a potential problem. Speak with people who truly love you and don’t just love partying with you. Ask if they think you need to stop drinking.Try cutting down, or cutting out alcohol completely for a couple of weeks. If you have a hard time doing so, speak with your doctor.

Remember, moderation is a wonderful thing. The healthiest, happiest people are those who can find and maintain balance in all things … drinking alcohol included.