Women and alcohol

Abstract

In recent years evidence gathered on the increased prevalence of alcohol problems amongst women (Shaw, 1980; Ferrence, 1980; Alcohol Concern, 1988); the growing numbers of women problem drinkers seeking help (Wilson, 1976; Kent, 1981; NIAAA, 1983); the atypicality and relatively small numbers of women treated in specialist settings, particularly in the UK (Thorn, 1984; Ettorre, 1985c) and the implied links between women’s heavy drinking and stress (for example, Breeze, 1985; Snell, Belk and Hawkins, 1987) suggests that problem drinking amongst women has achieved status as a social problem as well as greater visibility as a women’s issue.

If I this oath maintain, may I drink this glorious wine. But if I slip or falter, let me drink water. (Aristophanes, Lysistrata)