For most of my adult life, I had no relationship with alcohol whatsoever. And then, in 2016, I discovered a love of bourbon and started enjoying an old fashioned when I was out with family and friends.
But then the pandemic hit, and I started having a regular cocktail at home to cope with the stress. I was only drinking one adult beverage, but I was drinking every night.
Fast forward to three months ago when a patient I’ve known for a long time expressed worry that I was drinking too much. I was stunned. And angry.
Nevertheless, her comments inspired me to reflect on my habits and take a 30-day break from alcohol.
On this episode of Tell Me More, I’m exploring the impact alcohol had on my health, explaining why I blamed menopause and the stress of COVID for my poor sleep and memory dysfunction.
I discuss why I felt anxious and irritable for the first ten days of Dry January before my brain fog lifted and I felt like a new person by the end of the month.
Listen in to understand the science behind alcohol’s impact on your brain, mood and sleep quality—and learn how easy it is to slip into a drinking habit, no matter who you are or how much you know!
Key Takeaways How I got to a place where I needed a 30-day break from alcohol
Why I drank very little before I discovered a love of bourbon in my 40’s
How I coped with the stress of COVID by having a regular drink at home
Why I blamed menopause for my poor sleep and brain fog
Why I didn’t recognize the impact alcohol was having on my health
What inspired me to reflect on my drinking habits
How consistent alcohol use impacts your brain, mood and quality of sleep
Why I felt anxious and irritable for the first 10 days of Dry January
How my brain fog lifted and I felt like a new person by the end of the month
How easy it is to slip into a drinking habit (no matter how smart you are)
What to say to a loved one who’s started drinking consistently
Connect with Dr. Meyer Dr. Meyer’s Website
Email christine@christinemeyermd.com
Resources This Naked Mind: Control Alcohol, Find Freedom, Discover Happiness & Change Your Life by Annie Grace
What Alcohol Does to Your Body, Brain & Health on the Huberman Lab Podcast