Dry January bad for you? One addiction expert says yes

Dry January has become a popular social media trend. While it has added health benefits, it can also increase or worsen withdrawal or mental health symptoms. According to the New York Post, some experts warn that Dry January could cause more harm than good.

Some individuals abstain from alcohol for a month and then go back to drinking heavily, which can be dangerous. For other individuals, they might notice severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms, such as insomnia, nausea, and vomiting. 

Some people might not realize how alcohol-dependent they are. Even enjoying small amounts of alcohol can cause problems for some individuals, according to UK-based addiction specialist Lester Morse. In rare cases, withdrawals can even lead to death. 

What is Dry January?

According to Time Magazine, Dry January originated as a campaign to encourage people to stop drinking. The UK charity Alcohol Change UK was the first to create this challenge. Emily Robinson jumped onto this idea in 2011 when she prepared for a half marathon. 

She noticed that abstaining from alcohol had many benefits, such as better sleep, weight loss, and more energy. In 2012, Emily became the face of Alcohol Change UK. She shared her experience, which kicked off the organization’s first official ad campaign. 

The campaign made its way onto social media. Some individuals have considered the idea of abstaining from alcohol for personal reasons. Others might want to give up alcohol if they are dependent on it. You might find that you want to practice Dry January. But first, you should be aware of the benefits and potential risks. 

What does research show regarding Dry January benefits and risks?

Research has shown the potential benefits and risks associated with Dry January. Individuals who struggle with alcohol dependency or heavy drinking might not experience the touted health benefits. If you’re a heavy drinker, you might want to speak with your doctor before you consider Dry January or the sober curious lifestyle, both of which explore a healthier relationship with alcohol.

Benefits 

Research has shown that Dry January has many health benefits. A 2018 study found that 58% of its participants experienced weight loss. In that same study, 71% of people experienced improved sleep quality. Another study found that participants had lower blood pressure after the one-month break. 

Alcohol has recently been linked to cancer. This startling finding prompted the U.S. Surgeon General to issue a new warning about alcohol use. A third study at the Moffitt Cancer Center found that abstaining from alcohol can decrease one’s risk of cancer, including breast, colorectal, esophageal, and liver cancer. 

Risks

Dry January can cause harm to some individuals with alcohol dependency, warns Harvard Health. Some might experience heightened symptoms of anxiety, depression, headache, insomnia, nausea, and vomiting. It can also lead to serious or life-threatening symptoms such as delirium, fever, hallucinations, and increased heart rate. It’s always best to gradually reduce alcohol consumption before abstaining completely. 

Is doing Dry January a potential sign of addiction?

No, doing Dry January doesn’t suggest a sign of addiction. This idea has been around for over a decade. Abstaining from alcohol doesn’t indicate that someone struggles with alcohol use. 

Some people might refrain from alcohol for diet or lifestyle reasons. Giving up alcohol has many health benefits. However, it can help you explore your relationship with alcohol, especially during social situations. 

Individuals with alcohol use disorder might struggle to control their drinking. They might continue to use alcohol, even when it causes adverse outcomes in their life. 

They might also experience withdrawal symptoms when they dramatically decrease or abstain from drinking. In this case, Dry January could expose a potential sign of alcoholism. 

So in conclusion, is Dry January worth doing? 

You might notice that you feel more energy. Your skin might look better. However, abstaining from alcohol could have serious risks, such as an increased desire to drink or overindulgence of alcohol after the month ends. 

Experts agree that drinking less alcohol has its benefits. But it’s not safe for everyone to stop drinking. According to Maher Karam-Hage, M.D., individuals should only do Dry January if they fit the following criteria:

• Man or woman aged 55 or younger who has 14 drinks or less per week

• A man or woman aged 55 or older who has seven drinks or less per week

Heavier drinks might not want to consider Dry January. Instead, they should gradually reduce their alcohol intake. Abstaining from alcohol can cause delirium or seizures. It can also worsen mental health symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, exhaustion, irritability, mood swings, nightmares, and lack of concentration. The American Addiction Centers advise that alcohol withdrawal should take place under the guidance of a physician or mental health professional. 

Sources

• Why Dry January could actually be bad for you: Addiction expert - New York Post

• The Origins of Dry January | TIME

• Understanding The 'Sober Curious' Movement - Forbes

• How ‘Dry January’ is the secret to better sleep, saving money and losing weight - University of Sussex

• How Dry January Can Benefit Your Health, According to the Experts

• New Study Confirms Benefits of Dry January | Moffitt

• Thinking of trying Dry January? Steps for success - Harvard Health

• Should you do Dry January? Experts weigh in | MD Anderson Cancer Center

• Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms, Detox, Timeline, and Treatment | American Addiction Centers

• Kicking off the new year with Dry January? Here are six tips for success | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism