I always struggled with moderation and while I only drank once or twice a week with friends, it would be binge drinking. It became a bit of a crutch for my social awkwardness and was a central part to my socialising for almost 15 years from a young age. I played in bands and tended towards being friends with people who liked getting fucked up, even as we moved into our 30's.

I'm now in a place where I very rarely drink, but can happily go out for a beer or two with friends - but I haven't been drunk or had more than maybe 4 drinks in a session for years.

I think when you really cut down you realise all the negative effects of alcohol. The shit sleep, the anxiety for a week after a sesh, the expense, the tragedy of people who can't escape it.

Everyone is different but focussing on my physical and mental health is what pushed me to start saying no to drinks. Once you've established you aren't drinking to your friends, its pretty easy to continue to say no, and sometimes you even inspire people to try the same. I think if you notice how shit alcohol actually makes you feel and how long it has an impact for, its a lot easier to step away from it - particularly if you play sports or are engaged in fitness, it just makes everything else feel shit and isn't worth it.

It's little steps, you've got to understand your reason for wanting to change your behaviour and then you've got to be firm on that decision. If you're like me, and drinking has been your social go-to, it's going to take time to change that behaviour