6–12 July 2026

Alcohol Awareness Week 2026, coordinated by Alcohol Change UK, takes place from 6–12 July 2026 and focuses on the theme “Alcohol and Me.” The campaign encourages people across the UK to reflect on their personal relationship with alcohol and consider how drinking may affect their health, wellbeing, relationships, and daily lives.

Why Alcohol Awareness Week Matters

Alcohol is deeply woven into many aspects of British culture. From celebrations and social gatherings to sporting events and family occasions, drinking is often seen as a normal part of everyday life. However, this can make it easy to overlook the impact alcohol may be having on our physical and mental health.
Alcohol Awareness Week provides an opportunity to step back and ask important questions:

1. How often do I drink?
2. Why do I choose to drink?
3. How does alcohol affect my mood, sleep, and energy levels?
4. Could reducing my alcohol intake improve my wellbeing?

The aim is not to judge or shame people for drinking. Instead, the week encourages open, honest conversations and supports individuals in making informed choices that work for them.

The Theme: “Alcohol and Me”

This year's theme recognises that everyone's experience with alcohol is different. Some people may enjoy an occasional drink without concerns, while others may find that alcohol affects their health, finances, relationships, or work.

The campaign invites people to explore their own story with alcohol and understand how social expectations, habits, and marketing can influence drinking behaviours. It also highlights practical tools and resources to help people make positive changes if they choose to do so.

The Impact of Alcohol on Health

Drinking alcohol can affect nearly every part of the body. Excessive or regular drinking has been linked to a range of health issues, including:

1. Liver disease
2. High blood pressure
3. Certain types of cancer
4. Mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression
5. Sleep disturbances
6. Reduced concentration and productivity

Even small reductions in alcohol consumption can lead to noticeable improvements in sleep quality, energy levels, mood, and overall wellbeing.

Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference

Alcohol Awareness Week is an ideal time to consider simple, achievable changes, such as:

1. Having more alcohol-free days each week
2. Choosing lower-alcohol or alcohol-free alternatives
3. Tracking alcohol consumption
4. Setting personal drinking limits
5. Finding alternative ways to relax or socialise
   

For many people, awareness is the first step towards healthier habits.

How Individuals and Communities Can Get Involved

There are many ways to support Alcohol Awareness Week 2026:

1. Share awareness messages on social media
2. Start conversations with friends, family, or colleagues
3. Attend local health and wellbeing events
4. Encourage workplace discussions about alcohol and wellbeing
5. Explore free resources provided by Alcohol Change UK

Schools, healthcare providers, employers, charities, and community groups can also use the week as an opportunity to promote healthier lifestyles and signpost support services.

Looking Ahead

Alcohol Awareness Week 2026 reminds us that understanding our relationship with alcohol is a personal journey. Whether someone decides to cut down, take a break from drinking, or simply learn more about the effects of alcohol, every step towards greater awareness can have a positive impact.

For further information please use the links below:

Alcohol Awareness Week | Alcohol Change UK

Drinkaware Home | Drinkaware

Alcohol advice - NHS

Looking for more wellbeing resources? Read our Diabetes Awareness Week 2026 blog