Sober January, Sober 2020
It’s December, and we’re already fully immersed in the season of giving – and overindulgence. And if the holidays are just around the corner, then New Year’s Resolutions are also at the top-of-mind. This is the time of year where many people consider participating in “Sober January.” This is the time when we become reflective: What do we want to change about ourselves and our lives during the coming year? How can we improve ourselves in ways that will make us happier, healthier, and better people all around?
After what is typically a six-week period of excess drinking (Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve), some vow to start the year with a 31-day alcohol detox. This tradition began as a public health campaign in the United Kingdom in 2013. The Brits called it Dry January, and in 2017, U.S. residents also began to take part in this annual tradition. The program that began with only 4,300 people saw 5 million participants that year.
The Benefits of Sober January
One of the many reasons to experiment with a Sober January is to see how your body responds without alcohol1.
Decrease Blood Pressure, Cholesterol Levels, Increase Health of Live, Immune System, and More!
Alcohol consumption is known to cause high blood pressure and contribute to high cholesterol. It can also affect liver functioning, suppress your immune system, and may even cause cancer.
Ditch the Alcohol – Ditch the Weight
If you’ve included weight loss as one of your resolutions, abstaining from alcohol may help you achieve that goal. Alcohol is highly caloric, but it doesn’t make you feel full for all the calories it provides. You’ll have more fuel for those workouts you resolved to do in the New Year if you stop drinking since alcohol can deplete your energy.
Get Better Zzzs
You’ll probably have a month of better sleep if you stop drinking. Alcohol disrupts your circadian rhythm and blocks the REM activity that leads to more restorative sleep. It has also been known to aggravate breathing problems and often wakes you up to use the bathroom because of its diuretic properties.
Keep Your $$$
If you need yet another reason to commit to a Sober January, consider your wallet. Alcohol is expensive – especially if you’re drinking at bars or restaurants where the prices are marked up by 200% or more. If you typically find yourself in social situations where you’re pressured to drink, be firm with your resolution. Choosing not to drink can help you resist the urge to go along with the crowd.
Do You Have an Unhealthy Relationship with Alcohol?
Before you decide to have a Sober January, it’s a good time to reflect on all of the reasons why you may want to take a break from drinking alcohol.
Do you drink to cope with stress or anxiety?
Are you unable to fulfill work or family obligations because of excess drinking?
Do you find your drinking has caused you to isolate and withdraw from social activities?
Are you drinking to self-medicate and deal with mental health problems?
The National Institutes of Health has identified symptoms of alcohol abuse on its National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism2 website. Checking to see if any of these apply to you can help you decide whether or not it’s time to seek help for your sobriety.
Seeking Help with Long Term Sobriety
If you decide you need more than a month-long break from drinking, there are ways to get help. You may want to start by scheduling an appointment with your physician.
If you require more intensive treatment, most experts recommend a residential program. At Clear Life Recovery in Costa Mesa, CA, we tailor a comprehensive plan for your individual needs. Our qualified staff has professional training to help free you from your dependence on alcohol. All plans include detox, evidence-based therapies, holistic methods, and after-care programs so that you’ll have the tools to lead a sober life once your treatment has ended.
If you’re ready to break the addiction cycle and make a resolution for life – not just January – the compassionate team at Clear Life Recovery can put you on the path to sobriety.
Start with Clear Life Recovery
This is the year you can take back your life. Contact Clear Life Recovery in Costa Mesa, CA, to get more information about our alcohol addiction programs.
Sources:
1. https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/ss/slideshow-quit-alcohol-effects
2. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/
