MORE and more Irish people are giving up alcohol, or staying sober on some of their nights out. Research published in April by the Health Research Board shows that almost one-in-three Irish people over the age of 15 do not drink at all. This is a leap from 25 per cent of the population in 2018 to 30 per cent in 2022.
And with zero-alcohol options now in pubs and off-licences for beers, and spirits, even those who do drink are having sober nights out. But it can be a long journey for those who want to give it up completely. Here Drinkaware CEO Dearbhla O’Brien tells Nicola Bardon some key tips to help those who want to cut it out or even just cut back.
A DIFFICULT day at a work? Boredom? Habit at a certain time of the evening? If you want to reduce or stop your drinking, understanding the ‘triggers’ that make you think about alcohol can help you stay in control. Recognise the pattern and then make a plan to do something different. SET small, achievable goals.
At the same time, it’s motivating to give yourself enough alcohol-free days to see and experience the benefits quickly. Perhaps start with two full weeks including a weekend. Even after this short time you can expect to feel much better, look fresher, have better mental clarity, sleep better and maybe even loose a few pounds! Consider taking part in initiatives such as Sober October where you are part of a large group of people giving up alcohol for a month - often for a charitable cause.
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