There’s nothing wrong with blowing off a little bit of steam in life. It can be a vital part of relieving stress and unwinding after a hard day’s work. However, there are ways to best do that.
For many of us, it is a trip to the pub after work, often leaving our partners at home to cook the dinner or work their way through the chores following a long day.
As a partner, it can often be easy to accept that situation, but is it? Or is it quite selfish? We explore the reasons why going out to the pub each night after work isn’t perhaps the acceptable routine many believe it to be…
Impact on Physical Health
Firstly, it will be impacting their physical health. Drinking alcohol each night can contribute to the development of a range of chronic health conditions including liver disease, high blood pressure and digestive disorders, as well as a weaker immune system and cardiovascular problems. Which perhaps isn’t quite what you want in a partner.
Risk of Addiction and Dependence
Of course, if someone is drinking each day then the development of an alcohol addiction and dependence becomes increasingly likely. Becoming reliant upon alcohol both physically and psychologically means that it is not only problematic on health but also increases the amounts being drunk to have the desired effects.
This is only going to lead to further health complications, as well as withdrawal symptoms should they stop and the best course of action is to visit an alcohol rehab.
Impact on Mental Well-Being
Alongside the physical implications, alcohol misuse also has a huge impact on a person’s mental wellbeing and you may find that it can heighten the likes of depression, anxiety and mood swings in your partner, as well as exacerbate any current conditions they have.
Often we use alcohol as a coping mechanism, but actually they will get much more relief and support by speaking to you, allowing you to tackle their problems together.
Financial Strain
Ultimately, drinking daily can place a significant financial strain on both themselves and you as a family. The cost of purchasing alcohol each night isn’t going to be cheap. Let’s say they drink two pints per night at a cost of £5 each. That’s £10 per night across 365 days. That’s £3,650 per year, which could be better spent elsewhere, whether that be on groceries, put into savings, or having a pretty fantastic holiday! But what’s more, it can take the financial stress off you and your family during a time where money is tighter than ever before.
Effects on Relationship Dynamics
Finally, it can have a huge impact on your relationship as a whole. It can lead to behavioural changes and communication breakdowns where arguments happen more frequently and sexual intimacy can become few and far between. That’s because alcohol can affect mood in many ways, impair judgement and lead to issues with sexual performance.
What’s more, they’re more likely to neglect responsibilities and lead you to do all the work. Which isn’t really ok. It can add a real strain to a relationship and that’s as big a reason as any to sit down with your partner and try and create a healthier relationship dynamic that doesn’t involve you being left alone while your partner is out drinking each night.