Overview
- A peer‑reviewed systematic review in Alcohol and Alcoholism pooling 16 studies and over 150,000 participants found a month off alcohol improves sleep, mood, weight, liver function, and blood pressure.
- Researchers reported higher completion rates and more sustained drinking reduction when participants used digital supports such as tracking apps, daily emails, texts, and online communities.
- Prior research from the University of Sussex found users of Alcohol Change UK’s Try Dry app or coaching emails were twice as likely to complete the month alcohol‑free, with healthier drinking patterns six months later.
- Dry January’s reach continues alongside cultural shifts: Alcohol Change UK reported about 200,000 sign‑ups in 2025, Gallup found U.S. drinking at a record‑low 54% in 2025, and NIQ reported non‑alcoholic sales rise during January.
- Experts recommend preparation, clear goals, and social support, note that mocktails can be high in sugar, and stress that short abstinence is not a substitute for treatment or a safeguard against relapse in alcohol use disorder.