In September, the National Board of Health and Welfare presented new guidelines defining the threshold for risky alcohol consumption. These guidelines, which have been met with mixed reactions, set the standard for what is considered safe alcohol consumption.

A recently released report from CAN (the Swedish Council for Information on Alcohol and Other Drugs) sheds light on alcohol consumption in Sweden. The report reveals that a significant portion of the adult population in Sweden exceeds the threshold for risky consumption. According to the report, as many as 41 percent of the adult population crosses this threshold. However, the report has been criticized for setting the definition of risk of abuse far too low.

According to the new guidelines, the limits for risky drinking are defined as consuming ten standard drinks per week or four drinks on a single occasion at least once a month. This includes a variety of alcoholic beverages such as strong beer, wine, light beer, or spirits. Figures from CAN indicate that a majority of Swedes who consume alcohol exceed these limits.

Professor Mats Guttormsson of CAN emphasizes that these limits are based on statistical models that indicate an increased risk of premature death due to illness or injury resulting from long-term excessive alcohol consumption.

Although more than three million Swedes fall into the category of risky drinkers, it is important to note that alcohol consumption has actually declined in recent decades. According to Guttormsson, consumption has fallen by about 19 percent from 2004 to 2022, with an additional decline during the pandemic.

However, it is clear that addiction is a problem. Between 10 and 20 percent of the population suffers from addiction, and this is equally true in the workplace. As part of our HR partnerships, ByHart offers digital addiction treatment in collaboration with Recovery in Motion, with the aim of helping people feel good and ensuring that employers have fully functioning employees.

“With Recovery in Motion, we’re adding another dimension to our HR partnerships, allowing us to offer our clients a comprehensive solution,” says John Mannberg of ByHart.

Learn more about our digital addiction treatment.

Professor Guttormsson emphasizes that the report should not be viewed as a cause for alarm, but rather as a reason for reflection. He urges people to think about their drinking habits and to be aware of the risks that excessive consumption can pose. He stresses that understanding the guidelines and their implications is important for promoting a healthy lifestyle among the population.

In summary, the CAN report highlights the need for greater awareness regarding alcohol consumption in Sweden. It emphasizes the importance of reflecting on one’s own drinking habits and being aware of the guidelines established to minimize health risks.

“I would also recommend that all employers take a sensible, comprehensive approach and dare to find out what the situation is like in their own workplace,” says John Mannberg. “Our Hartic tool allows you to conduct both general and specific surveys that examine this. You’ll get a clear picture of the current situation and can proceed from there.”

Source: DN