Dr Alex George: Challenging the UK’s Drinking Culture for Men

Date: Sunday 16 Mar 2025

"You don’t decide to drink; you’re just auto-enrolled."

In a recent podcast episode, Dr Alex George critiques the deep-rooted drinking culture in the UK, highlighting its expectation over choice for men. He discusses alcohol’s detrimental effects on mental health and advocates for breaking the cycle. His advice includes pausing to reflect on drinking habits, trying alcohol-free breaks, and seeking new social activities that don’t revolve around drinking. This shift in mindset could lead to a clearer, healthier life for many men.

'It's the only drug you have to justify not taking'

In a gripping episode of the Men’s Health Podcast, Dr Alex George, an A&E doctor and mental health advocate, lambasted the ingrained drinking culture in the UK. He asserted that for many men, alcohol consumption feels less like a choice and more like a default setting, stating, "You don’t decide to drink; you’re just auto-enrolled." Alcohol is seamlessly integrated into British social life, prevalent at celebrations and everyday gatherings, yet this normalisation often veils a host of underlying problems.

"It messes with your sleep, increases anxiety, and keeps you in a cycle of feeling low."

The pressure upon men to drink can be daunting, making occasions like freshers’ week or post-football outings feel obligatory. Dr Alex emphasised that this societal expectation can obscure the adverse effects alcohol has on mental health. He pointed out the depressant nature of alcohol, saying, "It messes with your sleep, increases anxiety, and keeps you in a cycle of feeling low." Many mistakenly believe drinking alleviates stress, but he argues that it perpetuates it instead.

"We need a counter-conversation in this country. It’s time to push back."

Drawing from his medical experience, Dr Alex has witnessed the toll alcohol takes on individuals, manifesting as poor mood and diminished motivation. He advises anyone grappling with their mental state to consider taking a break from alcohol, suggesting, "Stop drinking. Just try it. See how much better you feel." Notably, he highlighted that numerous successful individuals in various fields have chosen sobriety voluntarily, as it often unlocks their true potential.

"Stop drinking. Just try it. See how much better you feel."

Excitingly, Dr Alex believes a growing awareness among men is leading them to reconsider their relationship with alcohol. Many are opting for healthier alternatives like exercise and mindfulness practices, fostering connections that don’t hinge on drinking. He encourages conversations on this topic, stating, "We need a counter-conversation in this country. It’s time to push back" against the all-pervasive drinking narrative.

For those considering a shift away from alcohol-laden social scenarios, Dr Alex offers practical advice:

1. Pause and Reflect: Assess whether your drinking stems from desire or expectation.

2. Try a Break: Commit to a month without alcohol to observe its effects on your well-being.

3. Find New Social Habits: Embrace activities such as running, gym meet-ups, or simply enjoying coffee instead of pints.

This insightful dialogue sheds light on the pressing need for change within drinking culture, urging men to seek healthier paths.

Learn more here: https://www.menshealth.com/uk/health/a64172495/dr-alex-alcohol/