DOWN BAD

You may have heard the phrase Dry January or Dry Jan floating around, maybe your friends are avoiding coming out because they’re also taking part and you’re wondering if you should join in too whether you only drink on social occasions or enjoy a glass of wine with dinner. Maybe you just want to learn more about the benefits? If so, this article is for you.

Dry January isn’t a new thing but more and more people are abstaining from alcohol in the new year. This could be because of the festivities over the holiday period, the motivation to become healthier in the new year or to break unhealthy habits or just for personal reasons. 

Alcohol is one of the only legal substances we have here in the UK and a huge part of our social culture, it needs to be treated very carefully. Hands up if you remember the drink responsibly adverts from the noughties! 

We’re not here to judge this is a safe space, alcohol abuse is very easy to fall into and everyone has their reasons for drinking, there are many ways you can get help if you need it. I have linked some resources at the bottom of this page.

Let’s have a look at how alcohol affects you both short and long term as well as the benefits of abstaining from alcohol to help you decide if Dry January is worth it for you.

Short-Term Effects:

• Brain Function: Alcohol interferes with the brain’s communication pathways, leading to impaired balance, memory, speech, and judgment. This increases the likelihood of injuries and other negative outcomes. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/alcohol-and-brain-overview
• Mood and Behavior: Even low doses can cause euphoria, reduced anxiety, and increased sociability. However, higher doses may result in lethargy, sedation, balance problems, and blurred vision. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcoholism
• Physical Coordination: Alcohol impairs motor skills and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/about-alcohol-use/index.html
• Sleep Disruption: Alcohol can exacerbate sleep problems, leading to disruptions in sleep regularity and patterns. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcoholic_beverage

Long-Term Effects:

• Brain Damage: Chronic alcohol use can lead to reductions in neuron size and alterations in brain function, affecting memory and learning. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/alcohol-and-brain-overview
• Mental Health: Long-term excessive drinking can lead to mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/alcohol-and-the-brain
• Liver Disease: Prolonged alcohol misuse can cause liver inflammation, fatty liver, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohols-effects-body
• Cardiovascular Issues: Chronic alcohol consumption increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/risks/
• Cancer Risk: Alcohol contributes to over 200 diseases and injury-related health conditions, including various cancers. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/305062
• Immune System Suppression: Long-term alcohol misuse can weaken your immune system, making you more vulnerable to serious infections. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/risks/
• Bone Health: It can also weaken your bones, placing you at greater risk of fractures. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/risks/

Benefits of Abstaining from Alcohol

Abstaining from alcohol offers numerous benefits that enhance physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. Here are some key advantages, supported by recent findings:

1. Improved Liver Health

• Liver Regeneration: Abstaining from alcohol allows the liver to recover, reducing fat accumulation and inflammation. Studies have shown that a month of abstinence can lead to a significant reduction in liver fat, enhancing liver function. https://www.theaustralian.com.au/health/dry-august-would-continue-your-good-work/news-story/fdcda1cfc7ecacf52d5e348e1199dba2

2. Enhanced Sleep Quality

• Restorative Sleep: Eliminating alcohol from your routine can lead to deeper, more restorative sleep, as alcohol often disrupts sleep patterns. Participants in alcohol abstinence challenges have reported improved sleep quality within weeks. https://www.theaustralian.com.au/health/dry-august-would-continue-your-good-work/news-story/fdcda1cfc7ecacf52d5e348e1199dba2

3. Increased Energy Levels

• Reduced Fatigue: Without alcohol’s depressive effects on the central nervous system, individuals often experience heightened energy and reduced fatigue. A personal account noted increased energy after a 30-day alcohol-free period. https://www.eatingwell.com/what-happened-when-i-quit-drinking-8763464

4. Weight Management 

• Calorie Reduction: Alcohol is calorie-dense and can contribute to weight gain. Abstaining helps reduce overall calorie intake, aiding in weight management. Individuals have reported weight loss after periods of abstinence. https://www.eatingwell.com/what-happened-when-i-quit-drinking-8763464

5. Better Mental Health

• Mood Stability: Abstaining from alcohol can lead to improved mood and reduced anxiety. Experts note that eliminating alcohol can result in a more stable mood and reductions in anxiety and depressive symptoms. https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/doctor-zac-reveals-what-happens-when-we-stop-drinking-alcohol/news-story/32e2ccf06dd65c59b210f4b7f53e3acc

6. Enhanced Cognitive Function

• Mental Clarity: Quitting alcohol can improve cognitive functions such as memory and concentration, leading to clearer thinking and better decision-making. Individuals have reported improved mental clarity after abstaining from alcohol. https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/health-problems/doctor-zac-reveals-what-happens-when-we-stop-drinking-alcohol/news-story/32e2ccf06dd65c59b210f4b7f53e3acc

7. Strengthened Immune System

• Increased Immunity: Abstaining from alcohol can bolster the immune system, making the body more resilient against infections. Experts highlight that improved immunity is one of the benefits of reducing alcohol intake. https://ahs.atlantichealth.org/about-us/stay-connected/news/content-central/2023/rethinking-drinking.html

8. Financial Savings

• Reduced Expenditure: Eliminating alcohol purchases can lead to significant financial savings, allowing funds to be allocated to other areas of life. Individuals participating in alcohol abstinence challenges have noted improved financial decisions. https://www.popsugar.com/fitness/benefits-dry-january-48084566?utm_campaign=feed&utm_medium=partner

Joining in with challenges like Dry January, can provide an opportunity to experience these benefits however it’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and those with heavy alcohol use should consult healthcare professionals before making significant changes to their drinking habits due to potential withdrawal symptoms.

Resources

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol misuse in the UK, numerous organizations offer support and resources to assist in recovery. Here are some key services available:

1. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

Contact Information:

Helpline: 0800 9177 650

Website: alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

2. Alcohol Change UK

Website: alcoholchange.org.uk

3. NHS Alcohol Support

Website: nhs.uk/live-well/alcohol-advice/alcohol-support/

4. We Are With You

Website: wearewithyou.org.uk

5. FRANK

Contact Information:

Helpline: 0300 123 6600

Website: talktofrank.com

6. Turning Point

Website: turning-point.co.uk

7. Mind

Website: mind.org.uk

8. Addiction Family Support

Website: addictionfamilysupport.org.uk

These organizations offer various forms of assistance, including helplines, counseling, support groups, and online resources. Reaching out to any of them can be a crucial step toward recovery and improved well-being.