As more people are exploring their relationship with alcohol use, some are embracing full sobriety and others are opting for short-term pauses like Dry January. From navigating social situations to discovering practical strategies for success, taking a step back from alcohol use can offer surprising mental and emotional benefits.

We sat down with Michael Lynd, Wellness Coach at Centerstone, to learn more.

What does it mean to be sober-curious? How is it different from total sobriety?

ML: Being sober curious means acknowledging the possibility that your relationship with alcohol may be negatively affecting your life. It’s a mindset focused on personal growth and exploring change without making any major commitments. Full sobriety is actually making the change and sustaining it over time. Someone who is sober-curious might try sobriety for a period of time to see how it feels as a way to evaluate their relationship with alcohol.

What is Dry January, and why do people participate?

ML: Dry January is a month-long challenge where people completely abstain from drinking alcohol. Some people try it simply for the challenge or novelty of it, and others may use it as a way to explore their relationship with alcohol and to see if they notice any changes when they don’t drink. While many people choose to start a dry period in January as a way to kick off the new year, the same approach and benefits apply to any period of intentional abstinence, no matter when it begins. This can be a great first step for someone who is thinking about modifying or reevaluating their relationship with alcohol.

What are some common challenges people face during a dry period?

ML: The challenges will vary depending on a person’s baseline drinking patterns and motivations. If their alcohol consumption is tied to socializing this may cause them to experience discomfort being around people who are drinking, increased social anxiety without “liquid courage,” or not wanting to have attention on the fact that they’re not drinking.

If their alcohol consumption is tied to relaxation or escape, they may experience the following challenges:

• Increased anxiety or irritability
• Feeling bored or restless
• Missing a coping mechanism
• Facing uncomfortable emotions without the numbing effects of alcohol

What are some tips you would recommend for a successful dry period?

ML:

1. Tell the people in your life and create a support system. This helps build accountability as well as reduce the chances of people offering alcohol to you.
2. Reflect on why you drink. Doing so can help you identify any triggers and make it easier for you to find reasons not to drink.
3. Plan activities for downtime. Engaging in your hobbies, social time with friends, and doing other enjoyable tasks can help you avoid any cravings.
4. Replace the physical habit. Staying hydrated helps replicate the physical action of consuming something. This is especially useful for those who have an oral fixation.
5. Reach out for professional support if needed. Things such as peer support, outpatient counseling, or support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) can all be helpful tools.

What are common benefits people may notice when abstaining from alcohol?

ML: Common benefits of alcohol abstinence include more energy, feeling emotions more clearly, reduced guilt, improved relationships, better mental stability, and improved well-being in general.

Whether you’re simply curious about cutting back or exploring a longer break from alcohol use, any dry period can offer valuable insight into your mental health and overall well-being. Approaching the experience with self-awareness and support can help you better understand what works best for you. If you are looking for professional support as you navigate your sobriety journey, Centerstone is here. Visit our website or call us at 1-877-HOPE123 (1-877-467-3123) to get connected today.