Every year millions of people across the UK take part in dry January, a 31-day challenge to abstain from alcohol. Whether it’s about recharging after the indulgences of the festive season or setting healthier intentions for the year ahead, this growing trend offers a chance to reset your body and mind.
What’s in it for me?
Dry January offers an opportunity to improve your physical health, mental wellbeing, and financial habits. But is more than just a personal challenge, it’s a nationwide effort to rethink our drinking habits and explore the benefits of living alcohol – free (even if it’s just for 31 days).
Health benefits
Alcohol impacts nearly every system in the body, so even a short break from drinking can lead to noticeable changes in both your physical and mental health. Let’s explore some of the key health benefits, in more detail below.
Physical Health: Studies have shown that giving up alcohol for just one month can result in significant improvements in your overall health. In fact, a survey from the University of Sussex* found that:
- 71% of participants slept better.
- 58% of participants lost weight, due to less calorific beverages and reduced late-night snacking.
- 54% of participants noticed improvements in their skin, with fewer breakouts and a healthier complexion.
- 70% of participants had generally improved their health.
Mental wellbeing: While initially, alcohol may feel like a stress reliver, it often amplifies anxiety and low moods in the long run.
Abstaining from alcohol provided a lot of people with mental clarity and increased concentration. It caused 82% of people to think deeper about their relationship with alcohol, as well as thinking more about when and why they drink. It also forced a lot of people to realise they don’t actually need a drink to still have a great time and enjoy themselves at social gatherings!
In addition to improved health, 88% of participants reported saving money during dry January, a particularly welcomed benefit after the festive season!
Some tips to help you succeed during dry January:
- Set some clear goals: remind yourself why you are participating in dry January.
- Team up with a friend or family member to support and cheer each other on throughout the month!
- Use an app or journal to record your dry January streak and celebrate all milestones to help stay motivated throughout the month.
- Treat yourself to some delicious non-alcoholic drinks!
In conclusion, dry January offers more than just a chance to skip the hangovers—it’s an opportunity to reset your habits, improve your health, and gain clarity about your relationship with alcohol. Whether you’re motivated by health benefits, financial savings, or the challenge itself, the rewards of a booze-free month are undeniable.
So, why not give dry January a try this year? You might be surprised by how much you gain from what you give up. Cheers to a healthier, happier you—without the hangover!
Support and resources for CAW students
As a student of The College of Animal Welfare, you can gain a wide variety of resources and support via the Togetherall app; there is a great little short online course to help you achieve Dry January on How to Help you Cut Down Your Drinking.
If you are worried about the amount of alcohol you are drinking, or are struggling with any aspect of college life, remember you can access up to six confidential counselling sessions free of charge; full details can be found here.
* Statistics sourced from – https://www.sussex.ac.uk/news/article/47131-how-dry-january-is-the-secret-to-better-sleep-saving-money-and-losing-weight