Known for our pubs, beers, and whiskeys, the Irish have a reputation for enjoying a drink or two. However, reports show that Ireland’s alcohol consumption is in decline.
A recent study has revealed that alcohol consumption in Ireland has dropped by almost one third in the past 20 years.
The report, commissioned by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI), revealed that the average alcohol consumption per adult has declined by 31% since 2001.
As Ireland’s relationship with alcohol seems to be shifting, experts revealed some of the reasons why there’s been such a hefty decline.
More of a focus on health and wellness – shifting attitudes
Joe.ie writer Simon Kelly spoke to Dr Melissa Kelly, PhD and founder of Sober Social Ireland to find out why alcohol consumption in Ireland dropped by almost a third.
She explained that a lot of the shift took place during the pandemic. “Unhealthy habits were brought to light a little clearly, after having so much time away to really think and be with ourselves,” Melissa said.
Melissa herself is one of a growing number of people choosing to give up alcohol. She explained, “For so long in my early 20s I had wanted to take a break. I was starting to really notice the negative effect alcohol had on my mental health.”
The impact of social media – a growing trend among the younger generation
Experts claim another reason that alcohol consumption in Ireland has dropped by almost one third is down to the impact of influencers and social media.
Melissa said that things like “celebrities coming out and talking about their own sobriety journeys” opens up the conversation on going sober among young people.
“There’s more of a focus on health and wellness and how you prioritise that.
“We have all these inspirational and aspirational people at our fingertips to see that there are other things to do,” she said.
With the rising rate of sobriety among people in Ireland – and particularly among young people – many are looking for new ways of socialising.
Thus, this trend is also causing a rise of sober and sober-curious options for socialising, with many joining things like run clubs or art clubs.
