The ‘Wine Mum’ cultural trend has become a popular, almost normalised, coping mechanism within parenting circles for the stress of parenthood and daily life. While this phenomenon may appear humorous and harmless, there’s a deeper, more problematic side that glosses over potential underlying issues of alcohol abuse.
The term ‘Wine Mum’ was first popularised during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many were working from home and feelings of loneliness and isolation crept in. The name was coined as a way for women to bond over shared struggles and identify with one another. Research has shown that there has been an increase in alcohol consumption in women in their 30s and 40s.
Why is the Trend Toxic?
1. Leads to Alcohol Dependence
The trend, portrayed as a fun stress reliever on social media, suggests that drinking wine is a common and acceptable way for mothers to manage pressure, which can encourage unhealthy coping habits and potentially lead to alcohol dependency. The idea that a glass of wine at the end of the day is necessary or even “deserved” can normalise alcohol as a solution and disregards the risks of excessive drinking.
2. Mental Health Concerns
The culture may discourage mothers from seeking proper support for their mental health. It may also downplay the seriousness of emotional distress, expressing the idea that it's easier to just "laugh it off" with a drink rather than address deeper struggles.
3. Gender Stereotypes
It reinforces the idea that women must be perfect multitaskers and should hide their struggles behind alcohol. This then makes it harder for women to admit they need support and can prevent women from seeking help.
So Why are Women Drawn to It?
1. Stress Relief and Escapism
Parenthood creates an overwhelming amount of stress. To relieve the pressure, it can be easy to turn to alcohol as a ‘quick fix’. The "Wine Mum" trope plays on the stereotype of the overworked, stressed-out mother who relies on wine to cope with the demands of parenting, household chores, and daily life. For many, it becomes a momentary escape to unwind after a long day.
2. Self-Care
For many women a glass of wine at the end of an evening can become a ritualized form of self-care. The self-care movement itself has taken off in recent years on social media, emphasising your own well-being and prioritising your needs.
3. Bonding over shared experiences
Alcohol has become a way for mums to bond, sharing the stresses of everyday life. The culture offers validation and fosters a community, making mothers feel less alone. This is also prevalent on social media such as Facebook, with dedicated groups popping up named ‘Moms who need wine’ establishing an online community. Merchandise and memes featuring taglines of “Wine O’Clock”, or “Mummy Needs Wine” are also commonly seen, shared among friends who can identify with the need in their daily life.
4. Social Acceptability
Wine is deemed as a more socially acceptable drink than spirits, making it easier to consume in a casual social setting at a higher volume.
Knowing the Warning Signs of Alcohol Dependency
1. Craving and loss of control
2. You see alcohol as a reward to unwind at the end of a day
3. You rely on alcohol as the default
4. Increased tolerance and withdrawal symptoms
5. Negative consequences
6. Loss of interest in activities
While the trend can be seen as a humorous way for mothers to bond over shared parenting struggles, the trend ultimately disregards the risks of excessive alcohol consumption and minimises the seriousness of alcohol abuse issues. It can mask deeper underlying issues and places a barrier in asking for help.
Are you worried that being a ‘Wine Mum’ has become a toxic part of your identity? If so, it may be time to reflect on healthier ways to manage stress and seek support.
Get in contact with us at Montrose Health Group by calling +44 (0) 1433 350 500 or filling out the form on our website.
Commentaires