Men in their 50s – how did you cope?

Hi everybody, first time on here. I see a lot of articles concerning quitting booze that are written from either younger women or actual ex-alcohol dependent folks. I’m neither of them; I’m a northern English fella of 54 who doesn’t have a problem with booze but for age and associated health concern reasons, seriously thinking of quitting for good. I keep myself trim and fit and eat healthily but no doubt about, love my bottle (or two) of red wine on a weekend. I’m at the stage where I’m asking, do I need this? I’ve had hereditary high blood pressure for as long as I remember and I know booze doesn’t help, as well as the odd mental health battle.

I’m interested to know if there are any other similar aged blokes out there who quit for reasons I am thinking, how they coped and what benefits they’ve noticed. Most of my friends are big drinkers and the drinking culture has been real for as long as I can remember. I go to the match, gigs etc still and you’re constantly surrounded by it all. So there’s that side to contend with too. Appreciate you reading and looking forward to hearing your stories. Cheers, Davey.