DRY JANUARY

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WHAT IS DRY JANUARY: 

 

Dry January is a challenge to abstain from alcohol consumption during the entire month of January. ​

See below on how you can take action. 

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BENEFITS OF DRY JANUARY: 

 

There are several benefits to short-term alcohol abstinence. According to a 2022 study published in the Harm Reduction Journal, Dry January participants reported the following benefits:​

1. Improved Sleep

2. Increased Energy 

3. Improved Diet

4. Weight Loss

5. Better Sex

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IS DRY JANUARY HARD? 

 

The difficulty of completing Dry January will depend on an individual's drinking frequency.
Light drinkers may find it easier to abstain from alcohol for the full month than those who imbibe more.

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TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL DRY JANUARY? 

 

Find a substitute non-alcoholic drink. For social situations or when the craving for an alcoholic drink may be stronger, have non-alcoholic drinks around, like sparking water, soda or mocktails.

 

Avoid temptations. Keep alcohol out of the house and bring non-alcoholic beverages when visiting others.

 

Create or join a support group. Enlist family and friends to try Dry January, too.

 

Don't give up. Don't feel guilty for slipping up. Begin the next day and try again.

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DRY JANUARY ISN'T FOR EVERYONE? 

 

Dry January is not recommended for heavy drinkers − men who have five or drinks per day and women who have four or more drinks per day, according to Massachusetts General Hospital.

 

Heavy drinkers who go cold turkey may experience mild to severe withdrawal symptoms, including shaky hands, headaches, anxiety, nausea and vomiting, and insomnia. Per Massachusetts General Hospital, withdrawal left untreated can even progress to life-threatening symptoms like seizures, delirium tremens and in some cases, death.

 

Individuals struggling with alcoholism may contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for free by calling 1-800-662-4357.