Mental Health Benefits of Dry January

L H D B E N E F I T S M E N T A L H E A L T H M I N U T E Mental Health Minute 4 Mental Health Benefits of Dry January Dry January is a wellness challenge where participants abstain from alcohol for the month to reset after the holiday season. It encourages reflection on one's relationship with alcohol and promotes more mindful consumption. Beyond physical benefits, it also offers several mental health advantages, including: 1. Improved mood and mental clarity - Dry January provides an immediate mood boost and improved mental clarity by eliminating alcohol's depressant effects on mood and cognition. 2. Reduced anxiety and stress - A break from alcohol can reduce anxiety and stress, allowing the mind to reset and promote a greater sense of calm. 3. Increased confidence - Completing Dry January can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence. Achieving this goal demonstrates self-control and commitment, which can translate into other areas of life. 4. Better coping mechanisms – Taking a break from alcohol encourages participants to find healthier ways to cope with stress, like mindfulness or exercise, fostering long-term mental health benefits. Whether you’re a regular drinker or someone who indulges occasionally, taking a month off from alcohol can provide valuable insights into your relationship with drinking and set the stage for a healthier, happier year ahead. 401 Pennsylvania Pkwy, Suite 200 Indianapolis, IN 46280 LHDbenefits.com Office: Population Health: [email protected] Building Good Mental Wellness Habits for the New Year As the new year begins, focusing on mental wellness alongside physical health can improve stress management, relationships, and overall fulfillment. Here are some strategies to support your mental well-being this year: • Prioritize quality shuteye. Sleep affects mood, cognitive function and overall well-being. Aim for seven to nine hours of restful sleep each evening. • Incorporate self-care. It’s important to make time for self-care and activities that make you happy, so build them into your daily routine. • Limit screen time. Frequent tech use can cause isolation, poor focus, and addiction. A digital detox reduces stress, improves self-image, and encourages healthier offline habits. • Strive for progress, not perfection. Focus on the journey and celebrate progress toward your goals. It’s about doing your best and accepting that it’s OK to make mistakes. • Practice positive self-talk. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. How you talk to yourself can significantly impact your mental health. Be kind to others and especially yourself. The start of the new year is a perfect time to build good mental wellness habits. These can help you navigate the challenges of everyday life and enhance your overall quality of life. For further guidance or support, contact a mental health professional or a health coach.