Alcohol has a significant influence on many aspects of life. Beyond the widely recognized physical and health impacts, alcohol can affect mental well-being, relationships, financial stability, and, our relationship with Christ. However, as we discuss in our latest Catholic Sobriety Podcast Minisode, A Catholic Approach to Understanding Alcohol’s Impact and What to Do About It the path to sobriety is never a lonely one. Faith can be a powerful tool to reclaim joy and move away from alcohol’s grasp.
Physical and Mental Health
The physical implications of alcohol are perhaps the most well-documented. Weight gain, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), sleep disorders, liver damage, and an increased risk for various types of cancer, including breast cancer, are just some of the potential consequences of excessive drinking. These health issues can significantly hamper our ability to live a fulfilling life, hindering our capacity to engage fully in activities we love and keeping us stuck in a cycle of poor health.
Beyond physical health, alcohol can also have a significant impact on our mental health. As a depressant, alcohol can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression, cloud judgment, and make it challenging to handle stress effectively. The temporary comfort provided by alcohol often comes at the cost of increased anxiety and mental health struggles the next day, compounding feelings of shame and self-loathing.
Relationships
Moreover, alcohol can strain relationships with friends, family, and loved ones, leading to disagreements, misunderstandings, and, in some cases, more severe outcomes such as domestic violence, infidelity, and divorce. Healthy relationships are crucial to a fulfilling life, and unaddressed alcohol issues can significantly impede these relationships.
Finances
Financially, regular drinking can put a dent in your wallet. The money spent on alcohol could be used for savings, investments, or enriching experiences like travel. It’s important to consider the financial implications of alcohol and think about the potential benefits of drinking less or not at all.
Spiritual Life
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly for many of our listeners, excessive drinking can create a barrier between us and our spiritual journey. As Catholics, our faith is central to our lives, and alcohol can hinder our spiritual growth and prevent us from living out our faith fully.
However, there’s a ray of hope in this struggle. Faith can be a source of strength, comfort, and transformation in overcoming alcohol-related struggles. Through prayer, meditation, and active listening, we can lean into our faith and catalyze positive changes. We can reclaim our lives from alcohol’s grasp, living out our faith more fully, and finding joy once again.
In our latest podcast episode, we also provide resources to support listeners on this journey, including a free “Drink Less or Not at All Guide” and the option to find a coach to guide you. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey, and as your host, I’m here to support and pray for you as you embark on this transformative journey to reclaim your life.
