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Writer's pictureDenise Hamilton-Mace

15.5 Million Brits are off to a Booze-Free Start with Dry January

As we ring in the new year, it seems millions of Brits are taking a new look at their drinking habits. According to research from Alcohol Change UK, nearly a third of the UK (29%) plans to take on the Dry January challenge this year. That’s roughly 15.5 million people swapping pints for premium alc-free lager and cocktails for kombucha.


A sign reading 'dry january' on a small easel on top of a round wooden table with clean empty glasses and wine corks

So, what’s inspiring this wave of mindful drinking?

Top motivators include

Saving money (24%)

Getting better sleep (18%)

Improving overall health and fitness, and shedding a few pounds (16%).

 

And how does it feel?

Research into previous participants of the month-long challenge noted that

70% said they slept better,

86% saved money

65% reported feeling healthier overall after a dry month.

 

More leads to less

Interestingly, the challenge comes after a year when nearly a quarter (23%) of Brits admitted to drinking more in 2024 compared to 2023.

Men are drinking above the low-risk guidelines of 14 units a week more often than women (35% versus 22%), which might explain why more men (32%) than women (26%) are ready to hit pause this January.

Overall, 9% of Brits say they wish to improve their relationship with alcohol in 2025.



Tools to Help You Succeed

Let’s face it, 31 days without a drink might feel like a big ask—especially if your go-to coping strategy after a long day involves a glass of something chilled. Whether this is your first, second or tenth go at taking a break, first off, I congratulate you for your commitment to yourself and your tenacity of conviction.

But you don’t have to go it alone. Research from an independent study by the University of Sussex has shown that participants who sign up for the official Alcohol Change UK Dry January program and take advantage of their free Try Dry app, daily motivational emails, and supportive online community can double their chances of sticking with it over those who decide to do it by themselves.

 

Rethinking Your Relationship with Alcohol

And it’s not just about getting through January. A whopping 70% of people who used these tools during Dry January reported drinking less up to six months later. It’s a reminder that this isn’t just about surviving a month without booze—it’s about reshaping how alcohol fits into your life.

 

Dr Richard Piper, CEO of Alcohol Change UK said,

“More of us are connecting the dots between the alcohol we drink and the impact it has on our health, wellbeing and quality of life. From poor sleep, headaches and hangovers to spending more money than we’d like or struggling at work or in our relationships, our research provides a strong picture of the reasons why so many of us are ready to rethink our relationship with alcohol.”

 

So, if you’re one of the millions planning a Dry January, know this: you’re not alone, and the rewards are worth it. And hey, even if you’re just curious about what a month off might feel like, why not give it a try? Your wallet, your body, and your mornings will probably thank you.

 

But remember, if you’re just counting down the days until you can have a big blowout on Feb 1st, you might not be getting the most out of the break that you possibly could. Take this time to explore the benefits you feel of a life less intoxicated and decide which elements you want to take with you into the best new year of your life! 

(Stats quoted from The Spirits Business)


 

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