I haven’t drunk a drop of alcohol all year and it’s changed my life

Cardiff: So, I decided to quit drinking on New Year’s Eve last year. Honestly, I never thought I’d stick to it, but here I am, a whole year later, and it’s been life-changing. At first, I just wanted to see if I could make it 30 days, but now I can’t imagine going back to my old ways.

Now, I’ve never been an alcoholic, so I can’t speak to that struggle. But I’ve learned a lot about myself during this time. If you’re dealing with serious drinking issues, definitely reach out to a professional. I’m just sharing my experience.

Ever since I turned 18, drinking was a part of my life, but it always left me feeling pretty crummy. I’d spend my weekends regretting my choices and feeling awful the next day. The hangovers were brutal, and the anxiety that followed was even worse.

Hangxiety, as they call it, is real. It’s that awful feeling you get after a night of drinking, where you’re anxious and just want to hide. I learned that alcohol messes with your brain, making you feel good at first but then leaving you in a pit of anxiety and regret.

As I got older, I started drinking less, but when I did, I often went overboard. I thought about going sober for a while but never had the guts until that fateful New Year’s Eve. I woke up feeling terrible, and it was a wake-up call.

Since January 1, I’ve been alcohol-free, and it’s been amazing. I’ve learned so much about myself and can enjoy life without the dread of a hangover. I was worried my social life would suffer, but it’s actually been the opposite.

My friends have been super supportive. They still invite me to everything, and I’ve found that I can join in on the fun without needing a drink. Plus, I can afford to do more things now that I’m not spending money on booze.

Cost-efficient

Let’s be real, drinking can get pricey. I used to spend a fortune on drinks, especially when I’d go for the more expensive options. Now, I stick to cheaper drinks, and my wallet is much happier.

And it’s not just the drinks. I used to spend a lot on taxis after nights out. Now, I’m the designated driver, which saves me even more cash. I can enjoy a night out without breaking the bank.

Mental health

My main goal in quitting was to focus on my mental health. I wanted to stop putting myself in situations that would make my anxiety worse. It’s been great for my self-esteem, and I feel proud of myself for sticking to it.

Having fun without alcohol has shown me that I’m not boring at all. In fact, I’m more fun than I thought, and my friends remind me of that all the time.

Physical health

Waking up fresh after a night out is a game-changer. I can hit the gym or go for a walk instead of lying in bed all day. I haven’t noticed a huge change in my physical health, but I’ve lost a bit of weight.

Relationships

I’ll admit, my drunk self wasn’t always the easiest to be around, and it strained some family relationships. But since I stopped drinking, I’ve noticed my connections with loved ones have gotten stronger.

I couldn’t have done this without my friends. They’ve been amazing, never making me feel out of place for not drinking. They cheer me on, and it’s been a fantastic journey.