If you’re like many Americans, you started boozing a little bit harder during COVID. And while you might not want or need to give up drinking entirely, maybe you’re thinking it’s time to cut back a bit. If you’re not into a completely dry January, how about dry-ish? Read on for some tips on how to keep cocktailing without overdoing it.
· First, you might want to take a look at the reasons why you’re drinking. Exploring your relationship with alcohol can help you understand any triggers you may have and how to avoid them. This can give you more control whenever you have the urge to drink.
· Tap in a friend. Enlisting a friend to cut back on booze with you can help keep you both on track. And like so many things in life, sometimes it’s just nice to have someone to commiserate with.
· Count your drinks. Set a limit for yourself if you’re planning to drink and stick to it. There are even apps like Sunnyside that will help you track your drinks, in case you lose track, well, because you’re drinking. 😉
· Seek out dry bars or visit bars that offer a mocktail menu or alternative drinks like kombucha. Just because you’re cutting back, it doesn’t mean you can’t drink fun things.
· Check out non-alcoholic or low-alcohol offerings that are popping up from major breweries and wineries. This side of the industry is expected to continue to grow as more and more people are moderating their alcohol consumption.
Cutting back on alcohol can give you a clearer head, better sleep, help maintain a healthy weight and reduce inflammation.
Please note that being sober curious, but not fully sober, is almost never an option for anyone suffering from alcohol use disorder, which may cause extreme alcohol cravings, withdrawal symptoms, dangerous actions, depression, or other physically or mentally problematic symptoms as a result of drinking alcohol. People with alcohol use disorder who want to get sober should contact their healthcare provider to make a plan.
Revan Health provides welcoming, respectful family medicine for all from infants to geriatrics. We understand the pain and frustration that comes with not feeling heard by your family care provider. We believe access to respectful care is key to improving medicine adherence and overall life satisfaction for our patients. Like us on Facebook or visit us at revanhealth.com.
*Credit for the term “sober curious” goes to Ruby Warrington, author of the 2018 book “Sober Curious: The Blissful Sleep, Greater Focus, Limitless Presence, and Deep Connection Awaiting Us All on the Other Side of Alcohol.”