Amid Surgeon General's Warning on Alcohol and Cancer, Middle-Aged Women Rethink Drinking

In This Article:

New Survey Reveals 30% of Middle-Aged Women are Embracing Sober Curiosity as 45% Express Dependency Concerns

DENVER, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the U.S. Surgeon General's warning about the link between alcohol and cancer, SOBRsafe (NASDAQ: SOBR) reveals key insights into the relationship between middle-aged women and alcohol. Conducted by Censuswide, the survey of 1,001 American women who drink alcohol aged 40 - 65 sheds light on their motivations, drinking habits, and barriers to seeking help. These findings detailed below, released in conjunction with April's Alcohol Awareness Month, aim to encourage open conversations about alcohol use among women navigating their midlife journey, ensuring they receive the support they need.

SOBR Safe, Inc. (NASDAQ:SOBR) ("SOBRsafe") (PRNewsfoto/SOBR Safe, Inc.)
SOBR Safe, Inc. (NASDAQ:SOBR) ("SOBRsafe") (PRNewsfoto/SOBR Safe, Inc.)

The Drinking Decade: 40's
Drinking behaviors are particularly pronounced among women surveyed in their 40s, with 28% of those who drink saying they drink more now than they did in their 20s. This 40 - 49 age demographic reports.

  • Just over 1 in 3 use alcohol to unwind or manage anxiety

  • 28% saw an increase in drinking alcohol after a breakup

  • Almost 1 in 4 of those who have children drink to manage parenting stress

  • 28% drink to cope with loneliness

  • 40% of those who are single rely on alcohol to ease first-date anxiety

"Women are often navigating significant life transitions and emotional challenges in their 40's, and for many, alcohol becomes a default coping mechanism," said Dr. Mandy Neeble Diamond, a clinical forensic psychologist and addiction specialist. "Feelings of shame combined with the stigma around seeking help keep many women trapped in quiet, unhealthy habits."

The Health Toll: From Well-Being to Aging
Despite its short-term relief, women who drink are experiencing alcohol's negative effects on their mental and physical health.

  • 32% report gut health issues and digestive discomfort after drinking alcohol

  • 27% report disrupted sleep due to drinking

  • Almost 1 in 4 say alcohol worsens their anxiety and depression

  • 23% experience memory issues tied to alcohol use

Barriers to Change: Shame, Social Pressure, and Cost
While nearly half of middle-aged women express concern about their drinking habits and alcohol dependency, seeking help remains a challenge:

  • 18% feel too embarrassed or ashamed to ask for help

  • 32% report they aren't ready to quit drinking

  • 16% cite financial limitations as a barrier to seeking treatment

  • 13% reveal they don't have time to seek help

"By shining a light on these shared experiences and feelings, we hope to inspire meaningful conversations and provide real solutions," said SOBRsafe Chairman and CEO David Gandini. "Whether you desire to cut back or quit drinking altogether, SOBRsafe tools and resources are available to support every journey."