Not Drinking for a Month Seems Simple. It Isn’t for Me. Now There Are Real Consequences.
Slate • • business
Key Points:
- The writer is attempting Dry January for the second time, aiming to abstain from alcohol for the full month despite upcoming social events that pose challenges.
- Dry January offers significant health benefits such as improved mood, better sleep, weight loss, and healthier blood pressure, but it can also reveal problematic drinking habits.
- The advice emphasizes distinguishing between simply abstaining from alcohol and embracing sobriety, which involves ongoing lifestyle changes and support systems like therapy and Alcoholics Anonymous.
- To succeed, the writer is encouraged to avoid triggering social events, build a comfortable environment at home, seek professional help if needed, and be honest with friends about their goals.
- It’s okay to not succeed immediately or to delay sobriety; the process is
