"The worst thing about some men is that when they are not drunk they are sober." - William Butler Yeats

In a recent study released by the National Institute of Alcohol Research, it’s been discovered that men across various age groups and different incomes are experiencing difficulty maintaining balance between alcohol consumption and daily life. The survey, which gathered data from over 2,000 men in the US, revealed that the percentage of these individuals consuming alcohol frequently has been steadily increasing, with nearly 60% of respondents admitting to drinking daily and 40% consuming more than the recommended limit.

The study went on to analyze the relationship between alcohol consumption and mental health and found that the negative impact increased dramatically among men who consumed more than the recommended daily limit. 58% of those surveyed reported high levels of stress, 51% felt anxious, and 48% suffered from depression, figures which are more than double the national averages for adults across all ages.

The research, led by Professor John Carlson of the University of California, also pointed to a worrying trend of alcohol consumption among men and domestic violence. 42% of the participants admitted to having experienced some form of physical or sexual abuse, up 18% from the previous year. Even more alarming, 32% of these participants stated that excessive alcohol consumption was a factor in these situations, admissions which could lead to the reclassification of domestic violence as a public health issue.

But what is possibly even more concerning is the study has found what may seem to be counterintuitive, that men who drink excessively can become more unpredictable when sober. It seems these men swing between being inebriated and sober, where their baseline temperament affects their behavior in unexpected ways. Professor Carlson explained that "this inconsistency can lead to difficulties in maintaining relationships, a lack of focus and concentration, and increased aggressive behavior."

The study has sparked a big conversation in society on the dangers of alcohol abuse for men and how it affects their mental and physical health, as well as the impact of alcohol on society as a whole. As such, safety measures and programs that specifically focus on teaching men accountability and encouraging them to maintain healthy relationships — without the influence of alcohol — are becoming increasingly important.

"It's clear that the time to act is now," says Dr. Alexandria Townsend from the Alcohol Awareness Institute. "There are serious long-term consequences associated with excessive alcohol use." "The key is to identify early signs and symptoms of alcoholism so that we can provide the support and resources needed to encourage healthy habits," she added.

As a result, the results of this study have resonated with public health policymakers and stakeholders in an effort to revamp interventions and education programs geared specifically towards men. Opinions are divided on the degree of impact that education and awareness will have on reducing this menace.

However, one thing is for sure – more resources need to be directed towards preventing and treating alcohol-related problems so that we can create a much better, safer environment for all men, especially in an age where statistics are showing the negative impact of alcohol consumption.