“Say, hey, it’s dry January,” and tell them why you’re taking a break. If a friend isn’t supportive, it may be time to assess that friendship. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, alcohol should be consumed in moderation — up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. “I would suggest cutting back on several things rather than completely eliminating to avoid feeling deprived, which can lead to rebound eating/drinking and weight regain,” she said. Depending on the person, Kumar said she sometimes suggests cutting back on alcohol to lose weight. The current Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that alcohol should be consumed in moderation — up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
I order a mocktail when I meet people for drinks because it feels good to sip a drink that has an air of indulgence to it. The action also helps reduce any worry of being interrogated by strangers about why I’m not drinking (it happens all too often) because mocktails look just like cocktails. If you have been a frequent user of alcohol, you may need to have a physical and consult with a physician about the possibility of experiencing withdrawal symptoms while abstaining from alcohol. Symptoms can occur to different degrees based on history and prolongation of use.
potential benefits from short-term abstinence
This is when you’re working hard to not drink, but one day give in and have a glass of wine or two, then give up on your goals altogether. Having a friend how to take a break from drinking also take up the challenge can make it a little easier. People trying to quit who have social support are more likely to reduce their drinking.
I hereby commit to, and accept responsibility for, achieving the goals that I have initialed below. These goals are designed to prepare me to stop drinking for at least 30 days. In addition, they show my motivation, confidence, and commitment to the quitting process.
Want a glass of wine to de-stress? Do squats instead (yes, we’re serious)
Now you can use this time to enjoy yourself and the things around you. “I have found kombucha to be an effective tool in transitioning off nightly nightcaps,” says Koskinen. People drink for a variety of reasons, Koskinen notes, but “stress-management and social connections” tend to top her clients’ lists. SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.
- Studies suggest that overusing alcohol can lead to an increased risk of depression and other mental health problems.
- Hopefully the suggestions along with the 30 day guide have been beneficial to your decision not to drink or to cut back.
- However, with increased frequency and amount, concentration, motivation and memory can be affected.
- In many ways, it does just what any substance would do; it cuts off the stressful event, gives a pause, and most importantly, lets you calm down.
- Clear, peaceful, well rested, more patient, less anxious, energetic, confident, strong, happy, and empowered.
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