New Year challenge: Dry January

As the new year starts some are taking on new resolutions and challenges. One challenge people take on this month is dry January. It’s when you quit drinking alcohol for the entire month and it comes with some health benefits.

“It's a way to give your body a break, all your organs from having to process alcohol… you give your liver a break, you give your kidneys a break,” Brenda Heidinger, Associate Director Mahoning County Mental Health & Recovery Board said. 

It can also be a time to assess if you're practicing safe drinking habits. 

“Moderate drinking is one drink a day for a woman, two drinks a day for a man,” Heidinger said.  

The CDC defines “one drink” as 12 ounces of beer or 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of liquor like rum or vodka. 

Some people associate drinking with going to the bar and having fun with friends but alcohol recovery specialists say cutting out alcohol doesn't mean cutting out your social life. 

“There's no shame in going to the bar or restaurant and having a soda or having water or iced tea or some other kind of beverage,” Heidinger said. 

Or you could find other activities instead of going to the bar. 

“Maybe bowling’s better than going to a bar, maybe they prefer to take a hike,” Heidinger said. “There are a lot of different ways that people can find joy and happiness in the world and in life without Imbibing.”

According to AlcoholChange.org, Dry January started in the UK in 2013. A woman named Emily Robinson decided to give up drinking alcohol during the month to prepare for her first half marathon. She then partnered with Alcohol Change UK and grew the challenge to involve other people. The site estimated that 175,000 took part in dry January in 2023.

Those who may need extra help quitting drinking can call 211 or call the Mahoning County Mental Health & Recovery Board at 330-746-2959 to find treatment centers and 12 step programs.