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Hidden in ​plain Sight

Our campaign believes in shedding light on the often-overlooked aspect of alcohol addiction—the individuals who suffer silently without seeking help.

we aim to raise awareness about the hidden harm caused by alcohol misuse and emphasise the critical need for individuals to access professional alcohol services. By showcasing the numbers and trends associated with those who do not seek help, we seek to ignite a sense of urgency and drive change in our community.

According to the Office for National Statistics, the number of alcohol-specific deaths among those aged 55 and over has been rising. In 2020, there were an estimated 4,391 alcohol-specific deaths in this age group, representing a 17% increase compared to the previous year.

• The Health Survey for England conducted in 2020 found that among 18 to 24-year-olds, around 22% reported binge drinking at least once a week.
  
• Among 25 to 34-year-olds, approximately 14% reported binge drinking on a weekly basis.
  

Our Campaign Video

Hidden

Harm

Hidden harm refers to the less visible or commonly overlooked negative consequences and impacts that result from excessive alcohol consumption. While some effects of alcohol misuse, such as physical health problems or obvious signs of intoxication, may be more readily apparent, hidden harm encompasses the deeper, often unnoticed, and longer-term repercussions that can affect individuals, families, and communities.

Understanding and addressing the hidden harm associated with alcohol abuse is crucial for promoting awareness, supporting those in need, and implementing effective prevention and intervention strategies.

Alcohol & ​Hidden Harm

20%

Alcohol specific deaths (increase of 20% compared to the previous year)

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), in the UK, there were an estimated 7,551 alcohol-specific deaths in 2020, an increase of 20% compared to the previous year.

• Long-term heavy drinking can lead to cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, and an increased risk of stroke.
  
• Some types of cancer, such as mouth, throat, liver, breast, and colon cancer, have a strong association with alcohol consumption
  

1 in 3

The NHS estimates that in the UK, around 1 in 3 people who have alcohol dependence also have a co-occurring mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety.

Alcohol IS a depressant

Alcohol is a depressant that can exacerbate existing mental health conditions and interfere with the effectiveness of prescribed medications.

• They may experience emotional, psychological, and developmental problems due to the unpredictable and unstable environment.
  
• Parental alcohol misuse can negatively impact a child's well-being, education, and future relationships.
  
• Providing support and resources for families struggling with alcohol-related issues is essential to breaking the cycle of harm.
  

• The disinhibiting effects of alcohol may contribute to aggressive or violent behavior, leading to domestic violence incidents.
  
• It's crucial to foster open and honest communication in relationships and seek support when alcohol-related issues impact personal connections.
  

Alcohol-related harm not only affects individuals but also impacts families. In the UK, it is estimated that around 200,000 children live with a parent who has an alcohol problem.

• Alcohol-related harm extends beyond individuals, impacting the community as a whole.
  
• The healthcare system bears the burden of alcohol-related illnesses, resulting in increased healthcare costs.
  
• Productivity losses occur due to alcohol-related absenteeism, reduced work performance, and workplace accidents.
  

According to a study by the Institute of Alcohol Studies, alcohol-related crimes cost the UK criminal justice system approximately £11 billion per year.

£11BLN

cost the UK criminal justice system

Behind The

Scenes

Photography by Scott Akoz

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