6 August 2015
Researchers:
PI: Amy Chandler, School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Lincoln
RA: Briege Nugent, School of Law, University of Edinburgh
Key findings
- Alcohol was described as a common-sense, ‘normal’, but largely ineffective, response to mental health problems among men.
- Alcohol emerged as an important part of suicide planning in some accounts. Non-fatal self-harm (external injuries and overdoses) were described as occurring with and without alcohol.
- Alcohol use is described as a ubiquitous part of social and cultural life in Scotland, particularly for men. This may make maintaining abstinence a struggle. Men may be at risk of isolation if they stop drinking.
- Men described antagonistic relationships with mental health services. This was related to drug and alcohol use and to gender identities.
