June 8, 2016 Alcohol Insight Number 137
Key Findings
Alcohol was described as a common-sense, ‘normal’, but largely ineffective, response to mental health problems among men.
Alcohol emerged as an important part of suicide planning in some accounts. Non-fatal self-harm (external injuries and overdoses) were described as occurring with and without alcohol.
Alcohol use is described as a ubiquitous part of social and cultural life in Scotland, particularly for men. This may make maintaining abstinence a struggle. Men may be at risk of isolation if they stop drinking.
Men described antagonistic relationships with mental health services. This was related to drug and alcohol use and to gender identities.