Mark White, MEUS Founder
With alcohol being described as ‘the UK’s favourite coping mechanism’, and Brits being notorious for their infamous binge drinking culture, going sober in a society that doesn’t seem to have space for it can seem almost impossible. But with depression and heavy drinking going hand in hand, ditching the booze could do more than just being kinder to your wallet.
Here are our top tips on going sober for October (and beyond!)
1.Get clear on why you want to go sober
While Go Sober for October is a campaign in itself with its own goals – to do whatever it takes to help support people living with cancer – and its own messaging, it’s important to get clear on your own reasons for wanting to go sober. Is it to help people with cancer? Is it to have a clearer head? Is it to save money? Is it to have more energy? Is it for better sleep? Is it to lose weight? Is it because you don’t want to face another hangover? Is it for a sense of achievement?
Whatever your reason, because they’re all valid, get clear on it and remind yourself of it throughout. When things get tough, it can be easy to lose sight of your end goal or intention, so keep this in mind as you embark on your sober journey.
2. Set boundaries with those around you
If going to the pub is what you’d usually do with your mates, or if social situations tend to revolve around drinking – make sure you’ve got firm boundaries in place with those around you. Some people may not understand your decision to go sober, and that’s okay, but it’s important to establish why you’re doing it so they can support you. Boundaries might look like changing up your social plans so they aren’t all alcohol-focused, or they might look like having a word with a friend before you go out to kindly ask them not to keep encouraging you to ‘just have one!”
3. Seek out a support system
Do you know anyone who has also decided to go sober for October? Reach out to them! Be it a connection you have in real life, or someone you’ve met online (Facebook groups are a great place to look!) – rally up your troops and ensure you are fully supported throughout the month. If you want to fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.
4. Find your favourite AF alternatives
Ditching the drink doesn’t have to mean sipping on soda water all night. There are plenty of delicious alcohol-free alternatives out there now so that you can still take part in the fun of drinking, just without the hangover! One of our favourite brands is Nirvana Brewery, a local East London brewery that is dedicated to brewing alcohol-free beers. Great-tasting beers of every stripe, with low or no alcohol – it’s a win-win!
