The sober curious movement is basically a one which champions a more mindful approach to alcohol consumption. There’s a few different levels to it, but the sober curious movement encourages people to think about why they drink, when they drink, how much they drink, and how it makes them feel. A comprehensive global study involving 195 countries over 26 years found that, to minimize health risks, the optimal level of alcohol consumption is zero. Of course, experimenting with the sober curious lifestyle may not immediately inspire you to quit drinking altogether.
- It involves exploring alternatives to drinking, learning to navigate social situations without relying on alcohol, and prioritizing overall well-being.
- By prioritizing health, wellness, mental clarity, and emotional stability, individuals can find fulfillment and a renewed sense of purpose in their journey toward sobriety.
- It’s important to distinguish being sober curious from being sober in the traditional sense.
- Many bars and restaurants are also expanding their non-alcohol or ‘mocktail’ offerings to include inventive drinks.
Sober Curiosity: Creating More Room for Joy and Freedom
McLachlan recommends several resources, including “Quit Like a Woman” by Holly Whitaker and “This Naked Mind” by Annie Grace. “They both do an amazing job of reframing how we think about alcohol in our lives,” she says. Sober curiosity can be a unique experience involving trying new things and stepping outside your comfort zone. “Set your expectations for just you and let go of what you can’t control, whether that’s people’s perception of you, extenuating circumstances, or emergencies.” Find rehab for yourself or a loved one by speaking with a treatment provider.
How do I start abstaining from alcohol consumption?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have tried not drinking and realized it wasn’t as straightforward as they anticipated. In a culture increasingly valuing authenticity and emotional intelligence, many are finding that alcohol hinders genuine connections. Being sober curious can be a way to experience life fully—without the numbing or escapism alcohol can bring.
Sober Curious? What It Means and Why It’s Worth Exploring
- Simply saying “no thank you” is always an option, but you might want to prepare some excuses in case people pressure you or try to interrogate your reasons for not drinking.
- Some people share their newfound curiosity on social media, which helps to normalise wanting to be more thoughtful about your drinking.
- If you’re curious about exploring a lifestyle free from alcohol or have questions like, “What does sober curious mean?
- That might include alumni support, sober living connections, and continued therapy.
You can try sober curiosity without giving up alcohol for good and still see what life is like without alcohol. Sober curious is a term used to describe someone who wants to try sobriety without committing to it. In short, it’s an open-ended way of exploring sobriety without committing to it.
For those who are interested in discovering what life is like without drinking, various efforts invite them to attempt short-term trials. Dry January, which started in 2013 in the United Kingdom, challenges people to abstain from alcohol for the first month of the year. Waking up with a raging hangover, cringing at texts or apologising for things I didn’t remember wasn’t empowering; it was confirmation that I was using alcohol as a crutch to manage insecurity and discomfort. In reality, though, people recovering from alcohol use disorder can go on to drink occasionally. Similarly, people who don’t meet the criteria for alcohol use disorder can still have a challenging relationship with alcohol and benefit from taking a break.
- From tailgating at sporting events and celebrating weddings to attending happy hours and networking events, we celebrate many of life’s greatest events with champagne, wine, beer, and cocktails.
- Over the past several months, Erin has worked with our team to create a strong clinical program for our residential location in Buckeystown.
- “After reducing your alcohol intake, mentally you may feel more intentional, more present, and more connected to those around you,” says John Herman, co-founder of non-alcoholic beer brand BERO.
- Shannon has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia in Political Science.
Socialising sober might feel different at first but remember why you’re doing this. As soon as you arrive, grab a drink (alcohol-free, of course) so you’re not lingering and overthinking. Stock up on non-alcoholic options you love, Drug rehabilitation like alcohol-free beers, kombucha, or fancy mocktails.
As mental health awareness grows, many people are experimenting with an alcohol-free lifestyle to improve their energy and emotional balance. It’s important to note that sober curiosity is not a recommended strategy for those with alcohol use disorders. For those dealing with addiction, sober curiosity can pose a significant risk of relapse and is not a substitute for professional treatment. By contrast, many people practice alcohol abstinence because they don’t like it, while others abstain from alcohol for health, psychological, or dependency reasons. This approach is generally non-negotiable and lifelong, particularly for those recovering from alcohol addiction.
Today, nondrinkers can choose from a wider array of nonalcoholic beverages, such as alcohol-free beer, wine, and “spirits” that mimic the originals (without the booze). There are even alcohol-free bars sober curious popping up around the country to serve this growing market. It’s a personal journey about becoming more intentional with your choices around alcohol to live a healthier, more present life.
