Copyright walesonline
Oscar-winning actor Anthony Hopkins has shared an emotional health update, confessing he was in "big, big trouble". The star of The Silence of the Lambs has spoken candidly about the crucial moment he quit alcohol 50 years ago, marking the milestone by celebrating his "unexpectedly long life". Known for his roles in Hitchcock and The Remains of the Day, he acknowledged he was in "big, big trouble" after experiencing memory loss and admitting to drink driving. A documentary about the actor, narrating his life story in his own words, will be broadcast on BBC 2 at 7.30pm tonight *. "Forty-nine years ago today, I stopped," Anthony revealed in an Instagram video. "And I was having such fun. But then I realised I was in big, big trouble because I couldn't remember anything and I was driving a car drunk out of my skull. "Then on that fateful day, I realised I needed help. So I got it. I rang up a group of people like me - alcoholic. And that was it. Sober. Anyway, I've had more fun these 49 years than ever.", reports the Express . Current NHS advice suggests consuming no more than 14 alcoholic units spread over three or more days each week - approximately six medium (175ml) glasses of wine or six pints of 4% lager. While prolonged alcohol misuse can lead to heart disease, strokes and various types of cancer, there are also numerous immediate harmful effects. Common symptoms include memory difficulties, along with nausea, fits, blackouts and potentially aggressive or reckless conduct. The Welsh personality continued: "If you do have a problem - having fun is wonderful, having a drink is fine - but if you are having a problem with the booze, there is help. "It's not a terrible deal - it's a condition if you're allergic to alcohol. Get some help. There's plenty of help around. One thing I didn't realise, I was not unique. There are thousands of people around like me. "Anyway, I got sober and, it sounds a dull word, but I've had a wonderful life. They still employ me, they still give me jobs." Looking back on reaching 87, he remarked: "I'm celebrating my long life - unexpectedly long life. So if you have a problem, you know where to go. Phone any intergroup, 12-step programme, whatever you could do. Because it is a killer." Should you be questioning whether alcohol dependency might be affecting you, the NHS advises considering four key aspects. The health service additionally states: "If you're concerned about your drinking or someone else's, a good first step is to see a GP. They'll be able to discuss the services and treatments available. "As well as the NHS, there are a number of charities and support groups across the UK that provide support and advice for people with an alcohol misuse problem."
