Dry January: Insights from Dr Richard De Visser on Long-Term Alcohol Habits
What seems to have happened is that everyone who took part, regardless of whether they made it through The Month, had an opportunity to stop and think about their alcohol consumption, about why they were drinking.
Is Dry January just a fleeting trend or does it have lasting benefits? This episode of the 'Alcohol Alert Podcast' brings you an in-depth conversation with Dr Richard De Visser, a Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Sussex. Dr De Visser shares his research findings on how participating in Dry January affects drinking habits both during and after the challenge.
He dives into the methodology used to collect data, the hurdles faced, and the broader health implications of abstaining from alcohol for a month. One key highlight is the discussion on drink refusal self-efficacy and its role in the success of Dry January. Dr De Visser also sheds light on participants' personal experiences and how their attitudes towards alcohol shift as a result of taking part.
The episode wraps up with a call for more research to further understand Dry January's long-term impact on alcohol consumption. Whether you're curious about the science behind this annual challenge or looking for motivation to join, this episode offers valuable insights and practical takeaways.