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Key Takeaways
For many, drinking during the holiday season is commonplace.
Social drinking is widely accepted and is seen as a way to lighten the mood and bring folks together.
Unfortunately, throughout the past couple of years, we have seen dramatic increases in alcohol consumption.
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But problem drinking is likely to make things worse.
The holidays are a complex time of the year for many.
We may wonder whether alcohol consumption during this time should be examined a little closer.
However, not everyone fits into the category of needing to step back from drinking.
If the answer is ‘yes’ to any of these, consider an exercise this month: Dry January.
Click below to listen now.
What Is Dry January?
How Can It Be Helpful?
A consideration for those interested in changing their routine is trying a Dry January.
This is an exercise in abstaining from alcohol for the entirety of the first month of the year.
Undoubtedly, this task will prove to be easier for some than others.
You might learn you depend on it to manage stress or feel comfortable in social situations.
Or you might discover you feel better and think more clearly when not drinking."
You might learn you depend on it to manage stress or feel comfortable in social situations.
Or you might discover you feel better and think more clearly when not drinking.
These suggestions may help you get started and set yourself up for success.
For someone who drinks heavily, giving up alcohol cold turkey might not be safe," says Morin.
What This Means For You
There are many ways to decompress after a stressful event.
For many, drinking may have become a coping mechanism.
If you have found yourself drinking more than normal, you are definitely not alone.
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