Managing unhealthy alcohol use in general practice

Abstract

Mr Tan, a 39-year-old banker, visited your clinic complaining of difficulties in falling asleep. This started six months ago after he underwent an acrimonious divorce, and he was desperate for a permanent solution to his insomnia. He admitted to drinking half to one bottle of red wine every night with his dinner to help him relax after a long and stressful day at work. He also enjoyed drinking 'a few' nips of whiskey when socialising with his friends, about two to three times a month. Recently, he missed a day of work after having had a drinking session the night before and his boss had given him a stern warning. He denied having any low mood or anhedonia. He went to see you to take medical leave, as he felt too tired to concentrate on his work that day.