Why Not Try Dry January?
As we approach the end of another year, we all start to look ahead towards the festive season and January. The question is…will you be considering Dry January?
Dry January originated in the UK as a public health campaign in 2013 and has since become a global phenomenon for Alcohol Change UK, the charity heading up the campaign.
One of the most important things to remember about Dry January is that it is not just designed for those who struggle with alcohol addiction, it is designed for anyone!
Benefits of Doing Dry January
Dry January can benefit anyone who wants to challenge what and how much they drink. It is aimed at encouraging you to drink less and take note of how good it makes you feel at the end of the month.
There are a host of health benefits that also come with trying out Dry January, including:
- Lowering the risk of cancer development, heart disease and liver problems.
- You will find yourself sleeping better
- Your skin will improve
- Your energy levels will increase, and you may find yourself more motivated
- It can also help with weight loss.
The festive and new year period can be a time when everyone overeats, and drinks more than they perhaps realise. Dry January can help work on the sluggish feeling you are left with when this is all over.
Long-Term Benefits of Dry January
Not only does Dry January have a positive impact on your health, but it can also have some longer-term benefits.
With people often finding themselves feeling healthier at the end of January, they continue with their newfound habits year-round. Research from Alcohol Change UK shows that 70% of those who use the Try Dry app or sign up to coaching emails continue to drink healthier post January.
It also teaches people how to manage their drinking. This can be of a benefit to those who may find themselves becoming reliant on alcohol more and more, providing an intervention possibly before the need for further help and support for addiction.
Another fact that Alcohol Change UK focus on through Dry January is that alcohol is linked with more than 60 different health conditions! It is the biggest risk factor for disability, ill health and death in people aged 15-49. A reduction in alcohol consumption will help reduce the risks of developing these health conditions.
Remember to Be Cautious!
One thing to remain cautious about is not to jump straight into the deep end.
Many people set themselves a handful of goals in the new year with the hope of achieving all of them. When they lose the motivation for all of their goals, they fall flat and end up not achieving anything. It is important therefore to remember that managing your goals in a realistic sense is key. Set a realistic goal, two at a push and work hard on those.
For those who may rely on alcohol more, it is also important to remember that going cold turkey does no-one any favours. This can do more damage than good in some situations. It is best to reduce your consumption gradually, aiming for gradual targets over a longer period of time.
New Leaf Recovery Project
If you know of someone who has become reliant upon alcohol, why not get in touch with New Leaf Recovery Project today? We aim to guide and support anyone who has an addiction in the best way possible.
We offer a range of recovery programmes and offer support for alcoholism within this. Do not hesitate to contact us online today or call us and our team can give you support straight away.