Retirement is often thought of as a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor, but it can also bring with it some unexpected challenges, including an increased risk of alcohol abuse. In fact, studies show that the percentage of heavy drinkers goes up by almost 5% within a year of retiring. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why some retirees turn to alcohol and how to recognize the signs of a drinking problem.
While many may picture toasting the end of our working days with a celebratory drink, we don’t typically think about the rise and risks of alcohol abuse during our retirement years. However, a growing population of retirees is struggling with alcoholism. It is estimated that the percentage of heavy drinkers increases by nearly 5% within one year of retiring.
Why Do Some People Drink More in Retirement?
There are various reasons why retirees may find themselves drinking more than they used to, and many of these reasons are psychological and social in nature.
1. Boredom: One common psychological factor is boredom. After retiring, people often have more free time on their hands, and if they don’t have hobbies or activities to fill that time, they may turn to alcohol as a way to cope with their restlessness.
2. Social Pressure: Just as there’s social pressure to drink when you’re younger, there can also be pressure to drink when you’re older. In some cultures, alcohol is seen as a way to relax and have fun, and retirement communities can sometimes foster a culture of drinking, making it hard to avoid.
3. Purposelessness: Retirement can lead to a sense of purposelessness, especially for those who find meaning in their work. Without the daily routine of a job, some retirees may struggle with feelings of depression and anxiety, and alcohol can become a way to cope with these emotions.
4. Past Trauma: For some, drinking is a way to deal with past trauma or painful experiences. Retirement isolation can bring these negative emotions to the surface, and alcohol can offer temporary relief, which can eventually lead to dependence and addiction.
5. Depression: Depression is another common psychological reason for increased drinking in retirement. Facing major life changes, health issues, and isolation can contribute to depression, and alcohol may seem like a quick way to numb the pain.
6. Marital Stress: Spending more time together in retirement can sometimes lead to stress in marriages, and some people turn to alcohol as a way to cope with the strain.
7. Financial Stress: Financial insecurity can also play a role in increased drinking during retirement. Living on a fixed income and dealing with health expenses can lead to financial stress, which some individuals try to alleviate through alcohol.
Recognizing the Stages of Alcoholism
It’s essential to recognize the signs of alcoholism and address them before they become severe. Alcoholism typically progresses through several stages:
1. Occasional Abuse and Binge Drinking: In the first stage, people experiment with alcohol, often in larger quantities, typically seen in younger adults.
2. Increased Drinking: In the second stage, people drink smaller amounts more frequently, sometimes to change their mood.
3. Problem Drinking: In the third stage, drinking becomes a habitual way to cope with negative emotions, causing problems in relationships and daily life.
4. Alcohol Dependence: The fourth stage involves a person becoming dependent on alcohol, experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.
5. Addiction and Alcoholism: The final stage is full-blown addiction, where a person’s life is consumed by the need to drink, and they may drink throughout the day.
Seeking Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol issues, it’s crucial to seek help. Acknowledging the problem is the first step to recovery. Professionals can assess the level of care needed, which may include detoxification, residential treatment, or outpatient services. Attempting to quit drinking alone is not recommended, as it can be dangerous, especially for long-term drinkers.
Remember, it’s never too late to seek help and make positive changes in your life, even in retirement.
Has your drinking become out of control? Talk to our recovery experts today to receive a confidential consultation. Call 256-202-6770 and begin your road to recovery.