During these times of uncertainty and more people having to stay at home, local residents are reminded not to overdo their alcohol intake during the lock down.

Many people are feeling anxious and overwhelmed by the current situation. As a result, drinking levels may well increase due to enforced isolation, particularly as people are anxious about careers, finances and even finding the right food.

Others may be living alone, and unable to connect with family and friends in the same way.

The temptation to have a drink to de-stress and unwind may feel natural, but in times of greater stress than usual, it's easy to drink more than you realise.

However, over time or in excessive amounts, drinking alcohol can lead to increased levels of anxiety, depression and stress, this can become a cycle that is difficult to break.

Richmond Council has released some helpful tips to help people manage their alcohol intake:

• Try not to drink during the day – wait until "after work" or the evening

• Try to drink with food – have one or two drinks with your meal, so the food absorbs the alcohol

• Stick to just 1 or 2 standard drinks per day and try and have at least 3 alcohol free days per week – plan ahead which days will be your days off

• Don't save your drinks for a binge drinking session at the weekend – binge drinking increases your risk of long-term illness and injury

• If you're chatting with friends online in the evenings, try alcohol alternatives some nights

Residents are reminded of the free and easy to use Richmond DrinkChecker website.

It helps raise awareness of alcohol limits, healthy lifestyles and safer drinking. Residents can use the site to help set goals to drink less, see how much they can save in cash and calories by reducing their drinking, as well as finding up to date information about local support services.

Cllr Piers Allen, Chair of the Adult Social Services, Health and Housing Committee, said:"Times are really tough right now – but overdoing the drink is not the answer. If you are struggling – there is plenty of support available.

"Many people will think we are being party poopers. We are not. Too much alcohol is not only bad for your physical health, but it can also have huge mental health ramifications.

"We just want people to understand that if they are drinking because they are unhappy, there is help available."

If you need support with drug or alcohol use, or are worried about someone else, there is a wide range of free services which may be able to help. You can be referred to local services by your GP or other health or social care professional. You can also refer yourself but you will need to make an appointment by phone for most services.

Richmond Community Drug and Alcohol Service (RCDAS)

Telephone: 020 3228 3020

Email: [email protected]

Confidential treatment options include advice, assessment and counselling.