Alcohol-free beer
‘I’m not an addiction specialist, but it sounds like you’re suffering from withdrawal symptoms. Nowadays we all know that alcohol is unhealthy. So really persevere for a while. Try to find an alternative to alcohol, such as tea (perhaps herbal) or alcohol-free beer. For some time now I have been drinking mainly non-alcoholic beer. It tastes just as good as beer with alcohol, although you might have to search for a brand that you like. These days I find the taste of alcohol in ‘normal’ beer too strong, so my tastes have adapted. Maybe the same thing will happen to you before long.’
Paul Smeets, a researcher at Human Nutrition and Health
Find support
‘You are certainly not the only student with this problem; it’s brave of you to bring it up. When you consciously stop drinking alcohol, you realize what role it plays in your life. Some people find that it is a way to numb emotions, stress or worries. In your case, it affects your sleep and concentration. That would seem to suggest a dependence on this drug. Take a look on Iriszorg.nl to find out what steps you can take. This institution also has a project for young people in search of more understanding, awareness and the motivation to break a habit: https://moti4.nl. Another option is to sign up with the student psychologists. In an intake interview we will zoom in on your problem with you and see what kind of support you need. You can also follow the online ‘Alcohol under control’ programme on our WUR page, by clicking on the ‘Gezondeboel’ link.
Lisette van Baars, student psychologist
Professionals
‘It sounds like you feel dependent on alcohol, but without knowing more about your background and more context, I find it hard to give you suitable advice. I think it’s wise to seek help from a professional such as a student psychologist, a GP or a study advisor. You can discuss your situation and hopefully find out why you’ve become dependent on alcohol and what steps you need to take to break your habit.’
Joanne LeerLooijer, education coordinator and lecturer in Knowledge, Technology and Innovation, and in Strategic Communication
Drawbacks
‘Yes, you have got an alcohol problem. Although it is a socially accepted addiction, a dependence on alcohol has serious disadvantages, both physical and mental. Have a think about it: do you have personal motives for joining in with Dry January? Or did you only do it because your housemates did? Make a list of all the things you dislike about drinking. I’m doing Dry January too and I’m finding that I can control the urge to drink by going for the 0% alternatives. January is not over yet. You can still break your habit and join in for the rest of the month’.
Steven Snijders, Master’s student of Management, Economics and Consumer Studies, and a Resource columnist
Do you have advice or tips for this Wurrier? Or could you use some good advice yourself? Email your tips or your question by 2 February to resource@wur.nl , subject noWURries.
