By Charalampos Karouzos,
Alcohol, often hailed as the “elixir of sociability,” holds a ubiquitous presence across cultures worldwide, being a necessary component while celebrating a precious moment or even while sharing a meal with the people we love. From ancient libations offered to the gods to modern-day toasts shared among friends, its role as a “social lubricant” transcends time and geography. Yet, beneath its veneer of cultural acceptance lies a nuanced narrative, one of camaraderie intertwined with caution, as the culturally and socially accepted substance is a very well-known potent psychoactive drug, with devastating ramifications.
The integration of alcohol into cultural practices spans millennia, having formed a strong alliance with rituals, traditions, and everyday life for some. Consider Britain and its strong pub, where apart from a location where alcohol is being served, often to excessive amounts, these communal hubs function as the physical locations of friendships nurturing, served along with pints of beer. This centuries-old tradition not only fosters a sense of belonging but also acts as a cornerstone of British identity. Across the English Channel, also named as “la manche”, in France, the vineyards of Bordeaux and Burgundy yield more than just wine; they yield a cultural heritage steeped in terroir and savoir-faire, as in the ritualistic sharing of wine at gatherings the French art de vivre is encapsulated.
Similarly, across the globe in Asia, and in fact in Japan, the art of sake-making is elevated to an act of great status, symbolizing craftsmanship and highlighting the importance of traditional sake ceremonies, moments of shared experience and gratitude, uniting participants under the umbrella of sake. South Korea is no different, as soju is commonly consumed in celebratory events; while the phenomenon of frequently abusing alcohol in after-work meetups named “hoesik” serves as a coping mechanism against the relentless demands of the workplace and competitive corporate culture, being deeply ingrained in the popular culture.
However, amidst the revelry lies a stark truth, the dangers of alcohol misuse. Consumption of alcohol and especially excessive amounts exacts a heavy toll on both individuals and societies, precipitating a cascade of not only health-related but also social ramifications. From the globally acknowledged link between alcohol and liver disease, to the heightened risk of accidents and violence, the consequences of alcohol consumption are far-reaching and profound.
Indeed, alcohol places a considerable strain on health, both physical and mental. Apart from the irreparable damage to the liver that compromises its vital functions, alcohol concurrently escalates the risk of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in most counties worldwide, worsening or even causing hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. Further, the immune system does not remain unaffected, as defenses weaken under the assault of alcohol, rendering the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Yet, the toll extends beyond the physical realm, infiltrating the intricate workings of the mind, directly sabotaging primarily the circuits of memory, concentration, and rational decision-making. Moreover, the specter of alcohol dependence looms large, dragging individuals into a quagmire of addiction, where mental health suffers grievously, with patients being trapped in the downward spiral of depression, anxiety, and psychosis deteriorating well-being.
Moreover, alcohol abuse casts a long shadow over society, inflicting a multitude of social ramifications that reverberate through communities and families alike. At its core, drinking allows the person to experience life under a novel pseudo-prism which eliminates the daily struggles and allows only the colors of euphoria and negligence to pass through. However, a continuous alternative reality can only be achieved with chronic excessive drinking, a practice that fuels a cycle of dysfunction, breeding discord and instability within interpersonal relationships. Particularly families bear the brunt of alcohol’s impact, with strained dynamics, financial hardships, and emotional turmoil as loved ones spiral into addiction. Moreover, alcohol misuse is a potent catalyst for the perpetuating cycle of violence, crime, and public disorder, all prevalent maladies of contemporary societies. However, the burden extends beyond individual households and communities, imposing significant costs on healthcare systems and law enforcement agencies.
In essence, the health effects of alcohol-abuse paint a sobering picture, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive interventions and support systems. One may argue that the above set scene presents a dismal view of reality and that, with moderation and responsible drinking, we can safeguard health and vitality, which although true, is safer when consumed in moderation; it must never be presented as a risk-free indulgence.
Indeed, in recent years, a discernible shift has emerged, as a growing contingent of the younger generation embraces sobriety and actively reevaluates societal norms surrounding alcohol consumption. This trend is part of a broader cultural awakening, wherein individuals prioritize holistic well-being and mindfulness over hedonistic indulgence, building a life brimming with delight. Interestingly, in Germany, a country notorious for their beer consumption, a new trajectory has been taken, with a constant decline of almost 20% in the total amount of alcohol consumed in the last 25 years. The myth of David Bowie’s 1970s Berlin, filled with nights of excessive drinking, is now being rewritten, fermented with a novel ingredient, sobriety.
Alcohol, as a globally accepted drug, occupies a multifaceted role within the cultural mosaic of humanity, serving as a conduit for social cohesion and celebration. However, the pivotal questions raised, summarized in the sustainable development goal of 3.5, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being, have proven themselves substantial, as consumption poses significant risks that the public is acknowledging. As we navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving world, the trajectory of the new generation towards sobriety represents a seismic shift, one that prioritizes mindfulness, connection, and holistic well-being, a realm in which alcohol doesn’t play the protagonist, if any, role anymore.
References
- Sobriety on the rise: Is Berlin over the influence? THE BERLINER. Available here
- Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder. NIH. Available here
- Alcohol abuse. Harvard Health Publishing. Available here
- Alcohol. WHO. Available here
- How to Get Sober: A Guide to Sobriety. American Addiction Center. Available here
- Tier Classification for Global SDG Indicators.UNSD. Available here
