NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTHBOROUGH – The Encompass Coalition is encouraging community members to consider participating in Dry January.
According to Substance Use Prevention Coordinator Emily Flavin, Dry January involves using the month of January as a fresh start and taking a break from consuming alcohol.
“There’s a lot of different reasons why people might want to participate in Dry January,” Flavin said. “It’s a good opportunity to start the New Year. A lot of people have New Year’s resolutions that center around health — maybe they want to try to get better sleep, maybe they want to try to exercise more, they want to eat healthier. Taking a break from alcohol consumption really ties in nicely to that.”
Flavin noted that people also use Dry January as a “check-in” to evaluate their alcohol use, habits and how it makes them feel. There’s a time limit for the break, making it easier to comprehend and feel like an accomplishment.
Encompass is a substance use prevention and reduction coalition in Northborough and Southborough. Flavin said the group wants to educate community members on the benefit of taking a break and reducing alcohol consumption.
Dr. Safdar Medina encourages all people to participate in Dry January, no matter how much they drink.
According to Medina, participants will experience improved sleep, more energy, better moods and reduced anxiety. Participants will also save money, and adults may have long-term benefits of weight loss and lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
Flavin said that children notice substance use around the age of 9, which is around the age when leading research institutions recommend adults start having conversations with their children. Older children can notice how frequently their parents drink.
“Adults are the main influence on teenagers on their decision-making when it comes to alcohol. When adolescents see their parents participating, they are more likely themselves to consider participating in Dry January,” said Medina. “If your teen hasn’t tried alcohol, having the conversation about why you are participating opens up meaningful discussions about alcohol.”
Medina and Flavin offered tips for Dry January to be successful. Flavin encouraged participants to set up their environment for success, including removing or putting alcohol elsewhere in your home, letting your loved ones know to hold you accountable and finding activities to fill any void from alcohol. Consider trying nonalcoholic drinks or mocktails.
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Medina noted that there’s an app called “Try Dry” to help one track their drinking and set goals while also providing motivation.
“And remember, don’t feel guilty if you end up drinking; it is not a sign of failure. Reset and try again,” he said.
For more information on Encompass, visit https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/health-and-human-services/encompass.
DISCLAIMER: Laura Hayes is a member of the Encompass Coalition.
