That drinking habit may seem harmless, until you see the four categories the NHS uses to classify drinkers

The NHS is drawing renewed attention to alcohol consumption as the New Year approaches, outlining a clear framework that classifies drinkers based on weekly intake. The issue came to light through coverage by LADbible, which explained that the guidance is designed to help people understand whether their habits fall within safe limits or pose a serious health risk.

Rather than focusing on labels or stereotypes, the NHS approach is built around units of alcohol consumed per week. This makes it easier for people to assess their own behavior, particularly if drinking has become a routine rather than an occasional indulgence. Stories about alcohol often go viral for shock value, whether it’s a bartender surprising a customer with an enormous final bill after choosing an expensive mixer or moments tied to major events and celebrations.

Health experts continue to stress that alcohol is not a neutral substance. Long-term consumption is linked to conditions ranging from heart disease to cancer, even among people who tolerate small amounts without immediate issues. In emotional or celebratory settings, such as a stadium worker being overwhelmed after receiving a generous gift from Taylor Swift during a concert, alcohol often plays a background role that can mask how much is actually being consumed.

The categories make some habits harder to dismiss

Most people assume drinking is simply light, moderate, or heavy, but the NHS divides consumption into four specific categories. These are based solely on weekly unit intake, not on how often someone drinks or how they feel afterward.

The lowest level is Low Risk. This applies to people who drink 14 units or fewer per week, spread across three or more days. At this level, the NHS says the risk of alcohol-related harm is low, although it is not zero. Many people in this category may experience few noticeable negative effects.

The next step up is Increasing Risk. This category includes men who drink up to 50 units a week and women who drink up to 35 units. At this level, the likelihood of health problems rises sharply. Issues such as poor sleep, low energy, high blood pressure, mental health struggles, and increased cancer risk become more common.

Those who drink more than that fall into the Higher Risk category. Here, alcohol is very likely already affecting physical or mental health in measurable ways. Liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and dependency-related behaviours are far more prevalent.

The final category is Possibly Dependent. This applies to anyone drinking beyond the Higher Risk thresholds. At this point, the NHS advises that specialist support may be needed, and healthcare professionals can refer patients to hospital alcohol teams for assessment and treatment.