Tell Me About It: ‘My family tell me to go and make new friends, but it is not easy in my mid-30s’
A person in their mid-30s, recently returned home to Ireland to be near family, is struggling with the prevalent drinking culture among their friends and fears judgment for not participating. They recognize their own enjoyment of drinking but desire to curtail the habit. Their family suggests making new friends, which feels difficult. An advice column suggests honesty with the group, accepting potential outcomes (including division), and seeking alternative social activities less focused on alcohol, emphasizing the importance of self-esteem and determination in maintaining a healthier relationship with alcohol and potentially finding new friendship groups.
