Many of us will have over indulged during the festive period and the start of the New Year is a great opportunity to make some healthy changes.

People should take this opportunity, at the start of a new year, to reflect on their use of alcohol, and if they can make changes to improve their lifestyle.

There are many organisations and campaigns which can support you and further information to help can be found at: www.nhs.uk/live-well.

Dry January, which is run by Alcohol Change UK, is an annual campaign which encourages people to give up alcohol for the month of January.

Taking part in Dry January is a chance to ditch the hangover, reduce the waistline, boost your energy and save some serious money, while doing your body a lot of good.

More importantly, it’s a way to reset your relationship with alcohol and drink more healthily year-round.

Cutting back on alcohol will help with your general wellbeing and you’re likely to notice the benefits quite quickly:

  • feel better and fresher in the mornings;
  • have more energy and feel less tired during the day;
  • you may stop gaining weight or lose some pounds;
  • your skin and hair may start to look better;
  • lower blood pressure;
  • a better night’s sleep;
  • you’ll have more pounds in your pocket to save or spend on a special treat.

If you drink to unwind, try finding other ways to relax e.g:

  • catch up with a friend;
  • start a new hobby – something you really want to do;
  • walk the dog, go for a run, take a bike ride or go for a swim;
  • join a local club, gym or five-a-side team;
  • reward yourself – go to the cinema, treat the family to a day out.

Find out more about Dry January at: https://alcoholchange.org.uk/get-involved/campaigns/dry-january.

A free app is available from the above website, which helps you track your progress throughout the month.

If alcohol misuse is affecting you, you can access support from the following places: