Beating the Booze Blues Through Dry January

Over the Christmas holidays, through New Year and into January, the average alcohol consumption doubles for most people and more for some. In response, the Dry January initiative started in 2013. Basically, for the entire first month of the new year, you abstain from all alcohol consumption to beat the booze blues as you begin a new year.

Talk to Someone

For most, the booze blues last a couple of days as they deal with a hangover. Feelings of guilt are a common side effect of too much alcohol. But some people find it more difficult, especially those with a problem. If you need help getting through alcohol abstinence, one of the best things you can do is talk to someone. Family and friends are excellent for helping you through a difficult time. However, suppose you feel ashamed or embarrassed about your alcohol problems. In that case, you can talk it through with a professional on some of the best lines for chatting about your issues.

Find a New Hobby

You might find it challenging to take your mind off substance or alcohol abuse as the reality of Christmas pressures sets in. Feelings of embarrassment can become overwhelming. Yet, in addition to talking to someone, there are many ways you can push feelings of wanting a beer aside. For example, many people take solace in indulging in their hobbies. These could be playing a sport, exercising, fixing up the house, or playing video games. Video games, in particular, offer an excellent means of escape since they offer entertainment while requiring concentration.

Get Out of the House

Sitting around and doing nothing will exacerbate any negative feelings you may have, and this doesn’t only apply to Dry January. Getting out of the home and into something fun, entertaining, or productive is vital during stressful times. And you may currently endure family changes because of the Covid-19 Omicron variant. Fortunately, restrictions aren’t as strict as the last lockdown, and parks and recreational areas are open in most places. So take a walk in your favorite neighborhood park or visit relatives in a socially responsible manner. 

Spend More Time with Your Family

With free time and improved energy, you can spend more time with loved ones. If you are lucky enough to have children, you can spend more time bonding. Doing things together, such as walking the dog or visiting local attractions, is time well spent. However, if you don’t have children, your time is well spent visiting elderly relatives or friends and family you don’t often get to see. There are many lessons you can take from alcohol abstinence. Therefore, you could consider cutting alcohol altogether as your quality of life improves.

Improve Your Work

Of course, the beginning of the new year means a new approach to work. However, work doesn’t stop, and you can use the time in January to strategize a new plan for your work. If you try Dry January, you will be surprised by how much more productive you will become when you stop drinking. First, you will get your mornings back. No more hangovers, lack of energy, and feelings of guilt. Second, your weekends become your own again. These contribute to improved work performance throughout the week as you use your weekend for rest, as you should.