Cutting back on drinking alcohol can be a really effective way to improve your health, boost your energy, lose weight and save money.

In 2020, 63 people from Cumbria were among the 6,985 who died from alcohol-specific causes across the country.

A recent report by Cumbria County Council reveals some shocking statistics relating to harmful drug and alcohol use across the county. The Alcohol and Drug Misuse in Cumbria: Health Needs Assessment found that while alcohol consumption in the county is higher than the national average, only 19 per cent of people with alcohol dependency were receiving treatment.

The report also confirmed that males aged 35-54 were most at risk of becoming alcohol dependent, with this group also having the greatest number of suicides, both in Cumbria and nationally.

Paul Counter, NCIC’s Ear, nose and throat consultant, said: “Too often we don’t think about alcohol when it comes to protecting our health. We are encouraging people in Cumbria to rethink their attitude towards alcohol and to consider ways to cut down.

“It is worrying that more people, particularly during the lockdowns of the past few years, were seen to be drinking at high levels, which over time, will increase people’s risk of developing cancers such as breast and bowel cancer, heart disease and stroke, as well as potentially adding to anxiety and depression.

“Cutting down on alcohol consumption and taking a few days off a week from alcohol can be a really good way to reduce your risk."

Any reduction in the amount you drink every week will be beneficial – and with the right help, it's easier than you think.

January can be a slow month with not much going on so is the perfect time to give your body a rest.

North Cumbria’s Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust has a higher than average number of alcohol related attendances and admissions.

A good place to start is with a GP. Try to be accurate and honest about how much you drink and any problems it may be causing you.

If you have become dependent on alcohol, you will have found it difficult to fully control your drinking in some way.

So you'll probably need some help either to cut down and control your drinking or stop completely, and also some plans to maintain the improvement after that.

The GP may suggest different types of assessment and support options available to you, such as from local community alcohol services. You can also ask about any free local support groups and other alcohol counselling that may suit you.