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Committing to a healthier lifestyle is a popular New Year’s resolution, and for many people, this means taking on Dry January, where they give up alcohol.
The start of a new year is a great time to evaluate your drinking habits. After all the holiday indulgences and festivities, January can leave you feeling a bit depleted. Taking a break from alcohol can be just the recharge you need.
You’re far from alone in this endeavor. A Morning Consult survey found that 15% of people were planning to participate in Dry January, with 70% committing to the entire month of sobriety.
According to licensed social worker Ashley Pena, Dry January can be a profound step for those struggling with alcohol dependency, as it forces them to acknowledge their struggles.
Wellness director Sherie Nelson adds that even those who aren’t heavy drinkers can benefit from Dry January, as it can help normalize abstaining from alcohol and lead to lasting behavior changes.
Whether you go all-in or opt for a “damp January,” reducing alcohol consumption can greatly benefit your health.
Getting started is as simple as assessing your alcohol intake and deciding whether to stop drinking altogether or gradually decrease consumption, as per Pena’s advice.
For those who drink heavily, withdrawals can be unpleasant, so seeking professional guidance is crucial, Pena emphasizes.
Here’s what Dry January can do for your health, and how to make it a bit easier.
What is Dry January?
The first official “Dry January” was launched in 2013 by the U.K.-based nonprofit Alcohol Change UK. It garnered over 4,300 participants in its inaugural year and has since gained momentum, with more than 5 million people pledging to abstain from alcohol for the entire month in 2017.
According to participants, giving up alcohol for one month can reverse the negative health impacts of regular drinking and bring about improvements in sleep and overall energy levels.