Does Dry January actually work? Experts weigh in on new year trend

It’s Shirley Temple season once more.

Many around the globe are ringing in the new year determined to make the first month of 2024 an entirely sober one.

During the so-called “Dry January” of last year, 41% of surveyed US adults — perhaps not Giants or Jets fans who have every valid excuse imaginable to hit the bottle — planned to not drink during 2023’s first month.

But sticking to such a parching resolution is often like admirably trying to hit the gym come the new year, which research confirms commonly falls short for many.

The spirit is willing, but the flesh needs a cold one on the couch as only 16% of Americans stick through Dry January, the same study noted.

However, for 2024, experts are optimistic about a little more dedication.

“This year, it’s actually becoming even more popular for people to engage in [Dry January] — people are thinking about taking a break from drinking either before or after the holidays,” Dr. Aimee Chiligiris, a clinical psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, told CBS.

“In the past, this might have caused anxiety, but it’s much more socially acceptable, and people are more aware of this movement, planning for it and discussing it in their social circles.”

It is the younger crowd leading the charge for less drinking as Gen Z is shooting down shots in staggering numbers. It’s gotten to the point where going out for drinks is a much less acceptable first date among 20-somethings — and even happy hour is now poo-pooed.

“Young people started finding new ways to focus on physical and mental health,” Chiligiris added. “Alcohol is seen as less of a necessity during social outings. There’s less social expectations to drink in social settings.”

The benefits of a Dry January

Experts have previously connected improvements in sleep with a month of sobriety.

Chiligiris said there’s even more benefits to cutting back as well.

“Certainly, a reduction of drinking, even if for a short period of time, can improve overall bodily function, especially in regards to liver function. Some people see positive positive effects in regards to weight loss,” she said, adding that holding off on the liquid depressant can “positively impact mood.”

A University of Sussex study found that 71% of those who embarked on Dry January reported better sleep, 67% said they were more energetic, 58% reported weight loss and 54% boasted better skin.

“Taking a break from alcohol or substances in general and really resetting to focus on yourself can give you a blank slate of, ‘What am I going to do to be social? To take care of my body today?’ ” said Chiligiris.

“It can really give yourself the space to think about different coping skills and also to get to get to know yourself in your emotions.”

Other researchers — like Dr. Rajiv Jalan, a professor of hepatology at University College London who previously studied Dry January participants — corroborate that sobriety might actually be the key to feeling good all the time.

“We followed people up after three to six months to ask what impact Dry January had on them. And in general terms, they felt so good in this month that they were more scared to drink during the week,” Jalan said.

“In the following six months, their alcohol consumption stayed low.”