The number of alcohol-specific deaths in Scotland fell by 3% in 2025, according to figures published today from the National Records of Scotland (NRS).
A total of 1,152 alcohol-specific deaths were registered last year, which is 33 fewer than in 2024.
The reduction was driven by a decrease of 43 deaths among men. In contrast, the number of alcohol-specific deaths among women increased by 10. Despite this, the alcohol-specific death rate among men remains around twice that of women.
These deaths continue to be highest among people aged 45 to 64 and 65 to 74. The average age at death has also risen over time, increasing from 54 to 60 since 1979.
Sadly, significant inequalities persist. People living in the most deprived communities are almost 5 times more likely to die from alcohol-specific causes than those living in the least deprived areas.
Dr Maria Casserly, Chair of the Addictions Faculty at the Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland, said:
“It’s positive to see a reduction in the number of alcohol-specific deaths in Scotland. However, while these figures show some progress, we can’t afford to become complacent. Alcohol-related harm remains one of Scotland's most pressing public health challenges. Scotland continues to have some of the highest rates of alcohol-specific deaths in the UK, and these figures underline the urgent need for sustained action on prevention, treatment and long-term support.
"Alcohol-specific deaths remain unacceptably high and continue to disproportionately affect people living in our most deprived communities.
“These deaths are tragic, but they’re only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the wider impact of significant alcohol-related harm in Scotland. This harm is felt across society, affecting individuals, families and communities, while placing increasing pressure on emergency departments and general hospitals, as well as specialist alcohol services.
“To build on the progress, made, we need specialist alcohol services to be available and accessible to people with alcohol problems in all hospitals in Scotland. This will ensure that the tens of thousands of alcohol-related admissions to general hospitals can be used as opportunities for intervention and change.
“Reducing alcohol harm requires a multi-pronged approach, with sustained investment in specialist services, continued support for Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) and consideration of wider policy measures, including restrictions on alcohol marketing. Most significantly, we need to address our population’s relationship with alcohol, which requires public health approaches throughout the lifespan.
“Alcohol services need improved access to community and inpatient alcohol detoxification, and stabilisation facilities. Most significantly, we need to address our population’s relationship with alcohol, which requires public health approaches throughout the lifespan.
“Scotland's NHS reform programme must tackle the inequalities that continue to drive alcohol-related harm and premature death. The College’s recent report, ‘Mental Health at the Fault Line’ has highlighted failings in the current health and social care system, and we’re aware of the erosion of alcohol services, especially in general acute hospitals in Scotland. Reform must deliver services that are consistent, equitable and accessible, ensuring everyone can access high-quality support.”
For further information, please contact:
- Email: press@rcpsych.ac.uk
- X: @rcpsych
- Out-of-hours contact number: 07860 755896