Tips For Supporting A Loved One's Dry January
Dry January is a one-month alcohol-free challenge that began in the United Kingdom but has become popular throughout the world. Dry January is not about total renunciation; but, about getting the positive aspects of life back. For those who've noticed a tendency to overindulge in alcohol, Dry January may be a welcome change to get their new year off to a good start.
Why is Dry January Relevant Now?
One study found that the stress of COVID has increased the consumption of alcohol. If a partner or loved one has opted to reduce their alcohol intake this January, they are not alone. In May 2020, researchers initiated an online cross-sectional survey with a sample consisting of over 800 adults in the United States. 60% of participants noticed an increase in alcohol intake compared to pre-COVID. While alcohol consumption has been increasing even before COVID, it is not unsurprising to see it spiking with the added stress since the pandemic began.
Tips for Supporting a Loved One's Dry January
Changing one's drinking habits can be easier with friends or family support. If an addiction has developed, family emotional support is essential. One study found the quality of the emotional climate in the home is vital and has an impact on the speed and success of the loved one’s recovery and treatment.
The following are ways to support your loved ones in their month-long journey.
• Ask them how you can be supportive
A family member may tell you their goals for the challenge and give you specific ways to help them. They may ask for positive encouragement. They may be looking for accountability and ask you to assist them. A loved one might also ask you to join them. The challenge is not always easy and it can be helpful to have the support of another person walking the 31 days with them.
• Recognize and Address Problematic Alcohol Use
To provide family support to a loved one, you must educate yourself. Sometimes, your family member is trying to give alcohol a lesser place in their daily lives. Other times, they may be creating a fun new lifestyle where alcohol becomes an occasional indulgence. Still, you will want to know the signs of alcohol misuse and be prepared to have an honest conversation, if necessary. Dry January can provide feedback about a loved one’s drinking habits and may indicate a need for additional professional help to be successful.
The results Dry January can be instructive. It helps your loved one to reflect on drinking habits and, if necessary, regain control of your own life. Never wait until the last resort to seek help for an alcohol use disorder. In terms of long-term sobriety, the sooner they receive treatment, the better. Family and friends should be there at every stage of your recovery, not just when the individual is feeling down. AND If they experience severe symptoms during the challenge like tremors (shakes), delirium, alcohol hallucinations, or alcohol withdrawal seizures, seek medical attention immediately.
References:
Atadokht, A., Hajloo, N., Karimi, M., & Narimani, M. (2015, March 20). The role of family expressed emotion and perceived social support in predicting addiction relapse. International journal of high risk behaviors & addiction. Retrieved January 5, 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4393558/
Atadokht, A., Hajloo, N., Karimi, M., & Narimani, M. (2015, March 20). The role of family expressed emotion and perceived social support in predicting addiction relapse. International journal of high risk behaviors & addiction. Retrieved January 5, 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4393558/
S;, G. E. R. B.-N. S. E. S. (2020, December 7). Alcohol consumption during the covid-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey of US adults. International journal of environmental research and public health. Retrieved January 5, 2022, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33316978/
