Why that’s a problem and how it might be solved — Alcohol consumption is deeply embedded in Western culture and has been for thousands of years. Over that time, all sorts of ideas, myths, and attitudes have become established in the public consciousness. While these cultural notions have continued to evolve over time, a seismic change took place in the modern…

If you’re a functional problem drinker considering stopping, my advice is to quit while you’re ahead, things will only get worse — “Rock bottom” in the world of alcohol addiction is the term used for when someone hits their lowest point due to their drinking. This might be an emotional emergency caused by a booze-related relationship collapse, losing a job or home, or any other humiliating or catastrophic event or experience.

Here are five reasons, plus a defense of Macca — A key songwriter with the most important pop band in history, there can be little doubt that Paul McCartney is a musical genius. In addition to composition, his talents also extend to singing, playing bass, piano, guitar, and drums. He’s been involved with various charities and social, animal rights and…

A recent study by the World Health Organization found that people who work longer hours consume more alcohol — People who overwork booze more. That’s according to a recent study by the World Health Organization (WHO), published in the journal Safety and Health at Work, which links working longer hours with consuming more alcohol. On average, they found that people who work more than 49 hours per week consume…

An exploration of the Canadian artist’s beloved hometown — For a huge fan of Leonard Cohen like myself, Montreal is place of pilgrimage. The great man spent his formative years in the French Canadian city and continued to return there throughout his long and varied life. Such was the cultural influence of Montreal on Cohen, I suspect that it’s…

The journey from social drinker to addict doesn’t always follow a straight line, I’m living proof of that — Years ago, I naively believed that the development of an alcohol addiction always followed a linear progression. That’s to say, a person starts off by boozing socially in a moderate way, but then gradually becomes increasingly obsessive, consuming larger amounts of alcohol with each month or year that passes until…

There’s splendid grandeur, for sure, but much more — For as far back as I can remember, I’ve had a yearning to visit French-speaking Canada. With its historical architecture and European influences, Quebec has always carried romantic connotations for me. It also offered the prospect of some relaxation and fresh mental stimulation. I was in bad need of a…

My dominant emotion is relief — Drinking for me was like smashing my head against a brick wall. It was certainly a relief when I desisted. But I wouldn’t say that I felt any pride. Thank goodness that’s over! was my main thought. I was doing a stupid, self-destructive thing and now I’m not! The bottom…

Fun, fitness, and an active social life: tennis has it all — I’ve been playing tennis for over 40 years and I love it. There are so many positives that have come out of this sport for me. Some of them are obvious, but others have surprised me. Tennis is a sport that’s suitable for all ages and skill levels; almost anybody…