In this episode, we dive deep into our society's enduring and complex relationship with alcohol. Host Anna Donaghey and guest Professor David Nutt, a renowned expert in neuropsychopharmacology, engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the glamorisation of alcohol in media, the impact of advertising on drinking habits, and the influence of the drinks industry on policies and public perception. They explore the historical and societal roots of alcohol's prevalence and shed light on the surprising realities of alcohol's effects on health and mental well-being. Together they reflect on the signs of a shift in alcohol culture and offer practical tips for mindful drinking.

Here are the highlights:

• 01:25 Alcohol's persistence due to historical and social factors.
• 05:49 European drinking habits, influenced by history, differ.
• 07:10 The point in UK history when alcohol consumption really grew.
• 09:21 Why alcohol is our social drug of choice.
• 15:03 The social benefits of alcohol. 
• 20:25 The power of the drinks industry in government policy. 
• 27:11 Obsession with wine and its health impacts.
• 30:18 Alcohol: impacts on healthcare, taxes, and consumption.
• 38:38 Fear of social isolation in drinking cessation.
• 42:14 Years of investment led to a successful drink.
• 43:50 Creating sociability through affordable alcohol alternatives.
• 49:50 Awareness of drinking habits leads to consciousness.
• 51:42 Drinking for stress relief can be concerning.

About Professor David Nutt:

David Nutt is currently the Edmond J. Safra Professor of Neuropsychopharmacology at Imperial College London. He is also the Chair of DrugScience (formally the Independent Scientific Committee on Drugs (ISCD) and President of the European Brain Council. 

David’s Book:  ‘Drink? The New Science of Alcohol And Your Health’: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Drink-Science-Alcohol-Your-Health/dp/152939323X

Find out more about the Gaba-based drink Sentia: https://sentiaspirits.com/

Find out more about David’s research and work into drugs: https://www.drugscience.org.uk/

About the host, Anna:

Anna is a certified Alcohol Mindset Coach, trained by Annie Grace of This Naked Mind. Drawing on her own journey out of alcohol addiction, she now helps others explore and control their drinking. With a career spanning 25 years as a Strategist in the Advertising industry, she combines her own lived experiences, with great insight into what makes us tick and what influences us to behave the way we do.

Connect with Anna:

Website: thebeliefscoach.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annadonaghey

Facebook: facebook.com/thebeliefscoach

Instagram: instagram.com/bigdrinkrethink

Produced by winteraudio.co.uk