We’ve come to that time of year when many of us are considering giving up alcohol. In fact, the number of people giving up not just for Dry January, but for good, is higher than ever.
Unfortunately, it isn’t always easy. After all, alcohol is addictive and for some it could require rehab for alcoholics to truly go sober and enter recovery. But do it and the positive impact it can have on your life can be great.
Whether you struggle with addiction, want a bit of a cleanse or are just tired of the Saturday morning hangovers, here are five ways your life will improve…
One of the most noticeable benefits you’ll see is the improvement in your physical health. Alcohol can lead to a range of health problems, from liver damage to heart disease, an increase in blood pressure to even a higher risk of cancer.
You’ll also likely gain weight as a result of the empty calories involved in alcohol. When you stop drinking your body begins to repair itself and the likes of the liver will begin to heal, while you’ll see better digestion, clearer skin and even lose weight. It will also boost your immune system, ensuring you’re less likely to pick up illness. Essentially, you’ll start feeling tons better!
And that tons better isn’t just in physical health, your mental health will improve too. Alcohol has a real impact on mental health, and stats suggest it's affecting people in the hundreds of thousands. Often people turn to drink to provide relief from stress, but actually in the long term it can exacerbate it.
By giving up booze, you’ll find your mood stabilises and you’ll be better able to manage stress and emotions. Additionally, people also find it can improve focus and concentration and allow your brain to really operate at its best.
We’ve perhaps all had a bit of a falling out after drinking one too many and the fact is that alcohol can strain relationships, lead to misunderstandings or even cut people off socially and leave them feeling isolated.
By removing the booze, engagement with loved ones will be much clearer and more authentic, while you’ll also be able to develop more meaningful connections. It can have a huge impact in creating stronger bonds and have a hugely positive impact on life.
Drinking can be an expensive habit. Whether it’s nights out at the pub, bottles of wine with dinner, or rounds of drinks at social gatherings, the costs quickly add up. By quitting alcohol, you’ll likely be surprised at how much money you save.
These financial savings can be redirected towards more fulfilling pursuits, such as hobbies, travel, or investing in your future. Over time, the monetary benefits of sobriety can contribute to a greater sense of financial security and freedom.
Alcohol can sometimes mask insecurities or provide a temporary escape from personal challenges. However, this reliance often undermines self-confidence and hinders personal growth.
When you give up drinking, you’ll have the opportunity to confront challenges head-on and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Achieving and maintaining sobriety is an accomplishment that can boost your self-esteem and sense of self-worth. Many people also find that they discover new interests, passions, and skills in sobriety, leading to a greater sense of purpose and fulfilment.
