Over the years many celebrities have taken the decision to embrace an alcohol-free lifestyle. It’s not surprising with high instances of substance abuse within the entertainment industry, that so many people struggle with the pressures of fame.

In sharing their decisions to live a sober life, celebrities’ high-profile platforms highlight the benefits of giving up alcohol – their insights, challenges and successes can inspire the sober-curious and those wondering what life without alcohol looks like.

“I know I have fans out there who are going through the same struggles I did, and I just wanted to share my story with them.” – Kat Von D

“Sobriety was the greatest gift I ever gave myself.” – Rob Lowe

According to research from Alcohol Change UK, the charity behind Dry January®, in 2023 almost 9 million people were planning to go alcohol-free for 31 days, with three in ten looking to cut down generally.

36% of young adults who drink said that the anxiety after drinking was a contributing factor in wanting to reduce their alcohol consumption. ‘Hangxiety’ is a term used to describe feelings of anxiety the day after drinking. Reducing alcohol consumption has many positive benefits on health, as well as the obvious hangover-free mornings, it can also lower the risk of developing cancer, liver disease and diabetes.

Whether you are looking to be healthier, lose weight, have better sleep, or make better decisions, Dry January is the perfect time to try a sober lifestyle, without the pressure.

If you’re looking for a total body and mind reset, a month without alcohol will do wonders for your physical and mental health. With so many alcohol-free alternatives on the market, social occasions needn’t be daunting, and you don’t have to do it alone.

We’ve put together some tips to help you join the list of celebrities giving up the booze.

The Big One – Why?

Everyone seems to be journaling these days – writing daily can be a great way to support your mental health and explore your feelings and worries. Keeping a pros and con’s list is a fantastic way to remind you why you are taking the decision – make sure to include everything you want to leave behind as well as everything you will gain.

Don’t keep it to yourself

Sharing your intentions, not only makes it more real – but pre-warns friends and family that you will be doing things differently this month. If you’re sharing on social media, enjoy the positive likes and comments from your post, and why not follow other sober accounts for more tips and advice on sober living.

Thanks, but no thanks!

Once you’ve made your decision, you don’t have to explain to anyone why you’re not drinking, and you certainly don’t have to feel pressured into having ‘just one’ or respond to ‘you’re no fun’. Be brave and be bold in your healthy choices.

Look ahead

After the fun of Christmas, January is always a tricky month – less money, less daylight and bigger waistbands means having something to look forward to is key in sticking with your decision. For a start you’ll be saving money by not drinking, so why not treat yourself to a posh meal, a winter walk with friends or a trip to the cinema?

An ‘Oops’ moment

You may breeze through January and never give a thought to your favourite tipple, or you may slip up. It’s ok, but it’s not ok to beat yourself up about it. Thinking about your triggers is a great way to look at how, and why you drink and will help you explore your relationship with alcohol.

Cutting back on alcohol or going alcohol-free is more than a decision, it’s a journey. It may be one that has many crossroads and obstacles, but the good news is you don’t have to travel alone. It’s going to be tough, but you are tough enough. Just remember to take it one day at a time.

“I’m sober today and I’m going to be sober tomorrow, but it truly is just one day at a time.” – Eminem