World · Qatar Now
T he end of the year can often bring one’s drinking habits into focus. Sober October brings conversations around an alcohol-free lifestyle to the fore, and big events like Christmas and New Year may spark a feeling that anyone abstaining from drinking will suffer from FOMO as everyone enjoys the social energy and celebrates. Of course, enjoying alcohol should not be treated as controversial in itself, but there are health benefits to be gained from pausing your intake for even a day, a week or a month.
These benefits were highlighted in a recent article by our fitness writer Harry Bullmore , who spoke to experts about what impacts giving up drinking can have. These ranged from a recalibration of one’s blood sugar in the short term to even losing weight for those who give it up for longer. And Harry can write from experience, as he recently shared his own journey in giving up alcohol in a member-exclusive article.
“I continued to use booze as a social lubricant into my twenties – but as the years went on, the magic wore off. I found happiness harder to come by in the days after a heavier session, and the hangovers became unbearable.” Harry Bullmore went sober himself, and has shared his experiences and the benefits it brought him (The Independent / Harry Bullmore) Our readers were eager to share their own experiences in giving up alcohol. Many have even gone a few steps further than the article itself, giving up alcohol for months or even decades, and have reported back the health benefits they’ve had.
Here are their experiences. Hangover-free weekends User Simon has pushed past the 12-month mark in his abstinence from drinking, finding that he has had some positive health experiences, but questioning those set out in the article when compared to his own journey. But he highlights one benefit that everyone can agree on: Simon: “I’ve given up alcohol now for over a year and of course there is the lack of hangovers which is an immediate benefit.
I had fatty liver which has started to improve which is a great positive reaction. I have not noticed any of the other benefits at all and in fact my weight has increased.” Cheaper rounds... and productive conversations User Friendlycomment made the crucial point that not drinking alcohol results in a much cheaper time at the bar! The user also commented on the effects that culture can have on us when it comes to drinking: Friendlycomment: “I have managed to be free from alcohol for 7 months now.
My energy levels have increased and I have a clearer state of mind. I socialise in pubs and bars and can spend just £1 on drinks all night. Maybe there are other ways to relax than alcohol.
I focus on having productive conversations and being fully aware of my surroundings. Culture and society can have an impact on our lifestyle and I find that taking care of health and wellbeing can have continuous rewards that drinking alcohol cannot achieve.” It’s a struggle – but that’s life, thankfully In a personal contribution, Independent member Yelses reflected on more than three decades sober. After drinking distanced him from his family and almost took his life – through its detrimental impact on both his physical and mental health – they are now better off.
But sobriety is by no means easy: Yelses: “I gave up the booze 32 years ago. My life was a mess, relationships - personal & family - were angry & they were at their wits end on how to help me. Drink was my refuge, best friend & safe.
Unfortunately, it was also slowly killing me - MH & physical health were both breaking down. Being sober hasn't been a bed of roses, but it's better than the alternative I was facing - death, madness or taking my own life!” Zero’s a hero Though Asquith didn’t share any impacts concerning health – their point about zero alcohol lagers will ring true for many people as their sales continue to rise. Asquith: “I never thought that I would give up alcohol and apart from the odd half pint maybe once every month or so, I have for about two years.
I did this as after decades I realised that I was drinking in the evening purely as a habit. I started drinking zero alcohol lagers and tried half a dozen. My favourite - Heineken 0.0 - tastes better than most alcoholic lagers.” Comments have been edited and condensed in some cases.
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI) or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch. If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you
Source: The Independent
