Voluntary periodic abstinence from alcohol during “Dry January†and subsequent alcohol use

Abstract

Background: Periodic abstinence from alcohol may convey physiological benefits and enhance well-being. The aim of this study was to address a lack of information about: correlates of successful completion of a planned period of abstinence; and how success or failure in planed abstinence affects subsequent alcohol consumption. Methods: 857 British adults (249 men, 608 women) participating in the “Dry January†alcohol abstinence challenge completed a baseline questionnaire and a 6-month follow-up questionnaire. Key variables assessed at baseline included measures of alcohol consumption and drink refusal self-efficacy (DRSE). Findings: Success during Dry January was best predicted by greater DRSE, more moderate drinking at baseline, intending to stop drinking after Dry January, and fundraising during Dry January. Participation in Dry January was related to reductions in alcohol consumption and increases in DRSE among all respondents at 6 month follow-up, regardless of success, but these changes were larger among people who successfully completed the challenge. Discussion: Periodic abstinence from alcohol can lead to changes toward healthier drinking and greater DRSE, and is unlikely to result in “rebound effectsâ€