What is Sober October?
It’s almost October which means we’re approaching the opportunity to engage in “Sober October”. This is a challenge to abstain from alcohol for the month to better understand the role it plays in your life, and to experience the benefits of sobriety on your health and wellbeing. In this article we review the impact of alcohol on mental health and benefits of cutting back.
Alcohol Prevalence
According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 29.5 million people ages 12 and older had alcohol use disorder. This is characterized by meeting a particular number of criteria such as drinking in larger quantities or over a longer period of time than intended, unsuccessful efforts to cut down, strong desire/urge to drink alcohol, failure to meeting obligations, continued drinking despite negative consequences, tolerance, and/or withdraw.
Culture of drinking
The presence and use of alcohol has become normalized. We see this in references to “mommy juice” (aka wine), BYOB paint parties, fitness + alcohol (think brewery yoga, 5k race with beer at the finish line), having one too many mimosas at brunch etc… Some people consume alcohol to celebrate and socialize, and for others it is in response to anxiety, depression, loneliness etc…Regardless of the intent of drinking, the impact long-term can be significant.
Alcohol and Mental Health
Despite being legal, alcohol is a mood/mind altering substance that impacts functioning. Research has highlighted the link between alcohol use and mental health. Alcohol use disorder often co-occurs with other mental health diagnoses. Sometimes, it is a pre-existing condition that makes an individual susceptible to developing a substance use disorder. For some, they occur simultaneously. Common diagnoses associated with alcohol use disorder include depression, anxiety, trauma and stressor related disorders and sleep disorders.
Impact on the brain
Alcohol is categorized as a depressant, meaning it affects the central nervous system, slowing down the messages between the brain and body. It can also affect concentration and coordination and slow down a person’s ability to respond. Imaging scans have shown that over time, people who drank were more at risk of their hippocampus region shrinking- the area of the brain associated with reason and memory.
Impact on the body
Alcohol can suppress immune functioning. This can make it harder for your body to resist diseases, and fight infections and colds. Long-term alcohol use can also increase your risk for developing significant medical issues including high blood pressure, cancers, liver issues and heart disease. Alcohol use can lead to dehydration which can also impact skin health. This can lead to the appearance of dull, dry and wrinkled skin.
Impact on quality of life
The effects of alcohol use go beyond just our mental health and physical health. Sometimes, excessive drinking can lead to negative consequences in our relationships or workplace. We may cancel social events or be more isolated. We may experience financial stress as a result of costs associated with drinking.
Healing the brain and body
The positive news is that recovery of brain functioning is possible! Studies have shown that treatments and interventions have been successful in facilitating healthy brain changes. Some of these include medication, mindfulness practices, and movement/exercise.
Whether you’re sober curious, just taking a brief break, or thinking about quitting altogether, we wish you success in as you start this next month!