Anthony Hopkins has reflected on the pivotal moment 49 years ago when he decided to give up alcohol. The acclaimed actor, celebrated for his performances in The Silence of The Lambs and Hitchcock, acknowledged the severity of his situation when he found himself unable to ‘remember anything’ and even admitted to drink-driving.
“Forty-nine years ago today, I stopped,” Anthony said in a video on Instagram. “And I was having such fun. But then I realised I was in big, big trouble because I couldn’t remember anything and I was driving a car drunk out of my skull.
“Then on that fatal day, I realised I needed help. So I got it. I phoned up a group of people like me — alcoholic. And that was it. Sober. Anyway, I’ve had more fun these 49 years than ever.”
In the UK, health authorities recommend limiting alcohol intake to no more than 14 units spread across at least three days, which is roughly equivalent to six medium glasses of wine or six pints of beer with a 4% alcohol volume. Excessive drinking can lead to chronic health issues such as heart disease, strokes, and various types of cancer.
However, there are also more immediate risks associated with alcohol misuse. These may include memory issues, in addition to vomiting, seizures, lack of consciousness and ‘reckless’ tendencies.
The Welsh actor continued: “If you do have a problem — having fun is wonderful, having a drink is fine — but if you are having a problem with the booze, there is help.
“It’s not a terrible deal — it’s a condition if you’re allergic to alcohol. Get some help. There’s plenty of help around. One thing I didn’t realise, I was not unique. There are thousands of people around like me.
“Anyway, I got sober and, it sounds a dull word, but I’ve had a wonderful life. They still employ me, they still give me jobs.” With his 87th birthday just around the corner on New Year’s Eve, Anthony expressed gratitude for his unexpectedly lengthy life.
He added: “I’m going to be 87 in two day’s time. So I’m celebrating my long life — unexpectedly long life. So if you have a problem, you know where to go. Phone any intergroup, 12-step programme, whatever you could do. Because it is a killer.”
If you’re concerned about your own alcohol consumption, the NHS states that four factors are worth considering:
- Do you feel you should cut down on your drinking?
- Have other people criticised your drinking habits?
- Do you need a drink first thing in the morning, to steady your nerves, or get rid of a hangover?
- Do you feel guilty or bad about your drinking?
It advises: “If you’re concerned about your drinking or someone else’s, a good first step is to see a GP. They’ll be able to discuss the services and treatments available.
“As well as the NHS, there are a number of charities and support groups across the UK that provide support and advice for people with an alcohol misuse problem.”