“Wine time: is your one glass a relaxing habit or a red flag?” is a collaborative post.
Let’s be real—life can be hectic, and winding down with a glass of wine feels like the perfect way to take the edge off. For many of us, it’s a ritual, whether it’s a rosé with dinner or a pour while catching up on your favourite show. But how do you know when your “one glass” is just a chill way to unwind and when it might be signalling something deeper? If you’ve ever wondered whether your wine habit is simply self-care or starting to slip into something more serious, you’re not alone.
Here’s how to spot the difference and figure out if that casual glass is more than it seems.
Are you drinking for the right reasons?
We all have those moments—a long day at work, stressful conversations, or just needing to relax after dealing with the kids. Pouring a glass of wine feels like an easy, socially accepted way to unwind. But when your one glass becomes a “need” rather than a choice, it’s worth taking a step back.
Ask yourself: Why am I reaching for this glass of wine? Is it just to enjoy the taste or because it’s part of your routine? Or is it more about numbing stress or avoiding uncomfortable emotions? The tricky part is that the habit can start with the best intentions, like winding down after a tough day, but if it’s becoming your go-to coping mechanism, it may be a sign to pause.
If you find that you’re turning to wine for emotional relief more often than not, it could be a red flag. It’s a good time to explore healthier ways to manage those feelings—whether that’s through yoga, meditation, or just a good vent session with a friend.
Is your “one glass” actually one?
We’ve all been there—pouring a glass that’s maybe a little more than a standard serving. A typical glass of wine is 5 ounces, but let’s face it, many of us are probably pouring eight or more without even realising it. Suddenly, “one glass” has turned into two or three servings, and that adds up over time.
Consider whether you’re being mindful of how much you’re actually drinking. It’s super easy for that one glass to creep into two when you’re not paying attention, especially if wine becomes part of your daily routine. And here’s the kicker: if you’re consistently drinking more than intended but rationalising it as “just one glass,” that could be a sign that alcohol is playing a bigger role in your life than you think.
Many reasons new mums need therapy come back to the pressures of juggling everything, and wine can sometimes feel like a quick escape. But it’s important to keep track and see if it’s a healthy balance—or if that pour is becoming a little too generous night after night.
Are you using wine to cope?
This is where things can get tricky. One of the biggest signals that your relationship with wine might be problematic is if you’re using it to cope with life’s stressors. This could be anything from managing the pressure of a hectic job, dealing with family stress, or even just fighting off boredom or loneliness.
Ask yourself: Is wine the first thing you think of when you feel overwhelmed? It’s totally normal to have a drink to unwind every now and then, but if it’s becoming your main coping tool, it’s time to reassess. Turning to alcohol for emotional relief can create a slippery slope, making it harder to face those tough feelings head-on.
Recognising that you’re leaning on wine in this way is the first step to making a change. It doesn’t mean you can never enjoy a glass again, but maybe it’s time to find new ways to deal with stress—whether that’s picking up a new hobby, journaling, or even seeking support from a therapist.
Do you feel like you need to cut back—but can’t?
So, you’ve noticed that your one glass is slowly turning into more than that, and you’re starting to feel like maybe you should cut back. But somehow, every time you try, it doesn’t quite happen. You tell yourself, “Tonight, I’ll just have water,” but by the time dinner rolls around, you’re pouring a glass of wine without thinking twice.
This is where it gets serious. If you’re trying to cut back or stop altogether but find that you just can’t seem to do it, it might be time to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol. In severe cases, you may need to detox. A female detox center could be the lifeline you need. Reaching out for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength. Whether it’s just scaling back your intake or needing more structured support, recognising that wine is starting to control you is a huge step.
It’s easy to tell yourself that it’s not a big deal, that it’s just wine, and that everyone does it. But if you find that you’re struggling to stick to your boundaries, it’s important to take that seriously.
Is wine affecting your relationships or responsibilities?
Finally, let’s talk about the bigger picture. Is your wine habit starting to affect your life in other ways? Maybe you’re feeling a little less present with your family or friends. Or maybe you’re finding it harder to get up in the morning, or your energy isn’t what it used to be.
If your relationship with wine is impacting your mood, your ability to focus, or your relationships, it might be a sign that something needs to shift. Wine should be something that enhances your life, not something that takes away from it. When alcohol starts getting in the way of your day-to-day life, it’s time to reassess.
Taking responsibility for your health and well-being is key. Your happiness and mental clarity come first, and if wine is interfering with that, you deserve better.
Take a breath, be honest with yourself
At the end of the day, the most important thing is being honest with yourself. It’s okay to enjoy a glass of wine, but it’s also okay to recognise when it’s becoming more than that. If you’ve read this far and something has clicked for you, know that change is possible—and you’re not alone. Whether it’s simply setting new boundaries for yourself or reaching out for extra support, take that step. Your mental and physical health matter more than anything, and you deserve to feel your best—without having to rely on a glass to get there.
Wine is meant to be enjoyed, not depended on. So, take a deep breath and listen to what your gut is telling you. You’ve got this.
