On Tuesday, September 15, 2026, Glasgow author James McInally released a new book titled “Alcohol: Cut Down. Stop. Stay Stopped.” The book explores the issue of problem drinking and its prevalence in society, shedding light on the fact that it can often remain hidden behind successful careers, families, and seemingly ordinary lives.
According to the latest Health Survey for England, around one in five adults in England drinks at increasing or higher-risk levels, while one in five adults in Scotland drinks at hazardous or harmful levels. The figures are even higher among Scots aged 55 to 64, with 28% reporting problematic drinking habits.
However, what may come as a surprise to many is that problem drinking does not always fit the stereotypical image of someone who has hit rock bottom. In fact, it can often be disguised in subtle ways, such as hiding bottles, underreporting consumption, or drinking alone behind closed doors. This can make it even more difficult for individuals to reach out for help due to the stigma surrounding alcohol addiction.
In his book, McInally challenges the common notion that alcohol problems only occur when someone’s life falls apart. He argues that people do not need to label themselves as “alcoholics” in order to acknowledge that their drinking has become a problem. Nor do they have to wait for a crisis to occur before deciding to make a change.
The book delves into the mechanisms behind excessive drinking, exploring how alcohol can become associated with reward, relaxation, relief, and routine. It also examines the important shift that can occur when drinking becomes less about pleasure and more about using it as a coping mechanism.
McInally stresses that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for changing one’s relationship with alcohol. Instead, the book offers a comprehensive approach that combines medical treatments, psychology, neuroscience, and practical behavioral change strategies, as well as other established recovery methods.
One section of the book focuses specifically on women and alcohol, addressing the unique challenges they may face, such as the impact of perimenopause and menopause on drinking habits. McInally also highlights the importance of addressing problem drinking among adults aged 55 to 64, who have the highest proportion of hazardous or harmful drinking in Scotland.
As a person in long-term recovery and a professional in the field of alcohol addiction, McInally brings a unique perspective to the book. He hopes that by sharing his own experience and years of working with individuals seeking help for their drinking, he can help others understand that they do not have to wait for their life to fall apart before taking their drinking habits seriously.
“Alcohol: Cut Down. Stop. Stay Stopped.” is now available in paperback and Kindle on Amazon, as well as on Apple books and other online stores. It is distributed by a UK alcohol information and support service, Detox Today.
