Alcohol use patterns

Understanding alcohol patterns is central to assisting people in Australia develop a pathway to recover from alcohol abuse. Our psychological therapy and methods focus on identifying and modifying patterns of behaviour, motivations and triggers for alcohol consumption. With evidence-based therapy, our program aims to help people achieve long-term, sustainable control over their drinking.

Man chopping vegetables in a sunlit kitchen, looking toward the window, with a wine bottle and bowls on the counter.

Is there always a cue behind drinking alcohol?

The word "cue" sounds technical, but in behavioural science it simply means any signal, internal or external, that has become associated with an action. A beer advertisement, an internal feeling or a familiar routine such as preparing food may act as a cue, depending on the person and their learned associations.

4 min read

Cues & triggers: understanding what sets off the urge to drink alcohol

Consider a missed train (cue). It brings frustration and fatigue (trigger), followed by the thought "I may as well enjoy a drink while I wait" (urge). The drink brings brief relief and next time the link between a disrupted commute and alcohol is a little stronger.

5 min read

A middle-aged business woman, standing alone in an elegant bar, looking tired, raising a glass of wine to her lips.

I have a successful career, business and family, but I’m worried about my alcohol use. How can I cut down?

When alcohol starts to feel like the thing holding everything together, it is worth paying attention. You do not need to wait until work suffers, relationships fracture or drinking becomes impossible to hide before you ask for help. Support can start with one confidential conversation that helps clarify what is happening and what changes you might like to make. At The Bluefield Clinic, care is confidential, non-judgemental and tailored to the individual.

5 min read

What is the first step to changing my relationship with alcohol?

A calm walk - new horizons The very first step to stop drinking alcohol is being honest with yourself. Effects of drinking that typically require your attention can include sleep problems, mood changes, stress at home and work, poor health conditions or illness. An accurate self-assessment of your drinking and its effects will lead you towards obtaining the right support - before you make big changes. Pouring remains of bottles down the drain and swearing to yourself "never a

6 min read

Three people standing shoulder to shoulder, wearing business clothes and hard hats surveilling a storage facility

If I am still high-functioning, is my drinking really a problem?

While it’s easy to think, "It won’t happen to me," alcohol use can escalate over time. Taking control of your drinking now can prevent more-significant challenges later.

2 min read

A fluorescent sign, typical of night-time drinking venues, listing its forms of entertainment.

Does "No Hangover" mean alcohol is doing less harm?

Research suggests that people who experience few or no hangover symptoms can be at greater risk of developing alcohol-related problems over time.

3 min read