This episode is not about social or celebratory drinking, but it's focused on those times when you just drink on autopilot (for example, while watching television) or to calm your nerves at times of emotional stress ('dutch courage'). Adam Cox estimates that these types of mindless drinking could account for 70-80% of alcohol intake, and that they form the foundation of an addictive loop. So it's useful for those who, while they don't want to become teetotal, would rather prefer to keep their alcohol drinking for enjoyable occasions.

Published: Sat 4 July 2026