Dry January gains momentum as Americans reset their relationship with alcohol

As the new year begins millions of Americans are choosing to take a break from alcohol in what is known as Dry January. The month long challenge encourages people to stop drinking alcohol for the entire month of January often as a way to reset after the holidays and take a closer look at their relationship with alcohol. Some surveys show that as many as one in four adults in the United States plan to participate in Dry January this year even if only for a few weeks. Younger generations are helping drive the movement. Gen Z and millennials are leading the way with many choosing to reduce or completely cut out alcohol as part of a broader focus on wellness and mental health.

Participants report a range of benefits after cutting out alcohol. Many say they experience better sleep improved mood clearer thinking and even weight loss within just a few weeks. Others say they feel more energized have fewer headaches and notice improvements in their overall focus and productivity. Health experts say taking a break from alcohol can also help people become more mindful of their habits and triggers. For some Dry January serves as a reset while for others it becomes a stepping stone to longer term changes.

Jessica Steinman with No Matter What Recovery joins NBC Palm Springs Mary Strong for this in-depth interview. She says success often starts with setting realistic goals building a support system and finding healthy alternatives to replace old routines.