To say that 2020 was a tough year is definitely an understatement. Nobody could have predicted that the entire world would fall victim to a global pandemic resulting in lockdowns, many people getting hospitalized, and deaths. Dealing with this unprecedented situation was difficult for a lot of people and not surprisingly, alcohol became a preferred coping mechanism to get through these harsh times.
One study revealed that the overall consumption of alcohol and binge drinking in the United States increased during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study found that stress and anxiety are the main contributors to the increase. Covid-19 restrictions have also reportedly prevented people from attending counseling and going to support meetings.
Now that we’ve entered a brand new year, there is really no guarantee that everything will be better. We are not sure if we’ve survived the worst, and many things are still beyond our control. However, what we have control over is ourselves and our decisions for the New Year.
If you are struggling with alcohol abuse, you have the ability to decide whether this is the year you will pursue a life in sobriety. If you are considering quitting drinking, here are five more reasons why you should become sober in 2021.
To achieve good health
The coronavirus pandemic has shown how important good health is for everyone. Being addicted to harmful substances can significantly lower your immune system. This makes you more susceptible to diseases and it can also heighten your health risks.
Drugs and alcohol have been proven to not only affect your physical health but can also damage your mental health. By living a sober life, you are ridding yourself of these substances that are harming your body and mind.
To have better relationships
Many relationships have been ruined because of alcohol addiction. If you have strained relationships with your loved ones because of alcohol, being sober could help you rebuild these connections.
Rebuilding your relationships is not an instant fix but it can become easier if the people you love see that you are serious about quitting your alcohol addiction. When you’re sober, you can also devote more time and attention to nurture your relationships with people.
To grow your skills and career
How many times have you been late for work because you were too hungover to wake up on time? How many times have you missed an important job interview because you were too drunk to remember? Or worse, maybe you have been kicked out of the office because you still reeked of alcohol? A lot of people who struggle with alcohol abuse have encountered such situations one time or another and this has led to missed job opportunities and lost income.
Being sober allows you to be more clear-headed to focus on more productive things like your career. When you’re sober, you can do your work more efficiently so you can avoid being stressed. Being sober also gives you more time to learn new skills so you can explore new job prospects.
To experience more of life
When you’re always under the influence of alcohol, it is difficult to fully experience what is happening around you because your senses are compromised. This robs you of the chance to totally experience what life has to offer.
When you’re sober, this allows you to do more things and participate in different activities. It also allows you to go out of your comfort zone and explore new opportunities. You can also have a fuller grasp of what’s happening around you so you can make better decisions and actions in your life.
To become a better version of yourself
Many people who turn to alcohol often think that they are hopeless, worthless, or insignificant. They use alcohol as a coping mechanism to get over their troubles and forget their difficulties. Some people, on the other hand, use alcohol as a way to seek enjoyment. What many do not realize is that the satisfaction that alcohol provides is very temporary and that the negative consequences have a longer-lasting impact.
By being sober, you are giving yourself a chance to become a better version of yourself – healthier, more focused, more active, more positive, and more clear-headed. You are also giving yourself a chance to create a new life away from the claws of alcohol.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol abuse, help is available.
Contact Anaheim Lighthouse today.
