Considering Sobriety

We chose this month’s Substance Misuse & Sobriety theme because many people are kicking off the new year with dry January. And in case you’re curious, dry January was trademarked by the Alcohol Concern charity in 2014 and has become hugely popular since then.

Maybe you’d like to cut back on alcohol but aren’t ready to give it up altogether - which brings up the topic of being sober curious. Perhaps you’ve heard this term buzzing around your friend group. “Sober curious” means that you’re being thoughtful about your alcohol consumption in an attempt to understand better what leads you to drink. It is an invitation to say no to alcohol when you’re not in the mood and yes when you are - but while always being thoughtful about your consumption.

If you’re considering sobriety in any form, consider the following questions:

• How does alcohol make you feel (before, during, and after consumption!)?

• How would experiences be if you were sober instead of intoxicated?

• What might it feel like to engage in activities that don’t center around alcohol?

• How would your friends/partner respond if you became sober curious? Would they feel relief? Would they pressure you to drink?

• Are there ways that alcohol harms you (physically, emotionally, relationally)?

We encourage you to start with curiosity. Take an honest look at your relationship with alcohol and how it impacts your life. Plenty of support exists if you feel like it’s time to cut back. Here are a few of our favorite podcasts:

• Recovery Elevator

• A Sober Girls Guide to Podcast

• That Sober Guy

• The Hello Someday Podcast For Sober Curious Women

• The Bubble Hour

If you’re considering sobriety in any form, contact us today for support! We’re here to help you on your journey towards living your best life.