What may have started as a way to unwind after a long day or a bonding experience with friends can sometimes spiral into alcohol abuse: unintentionally drinking more than you wanted, struggling with frequent hangovers, missing school or work because of the effects of alcohol. While these are extreme examples, even if you do not fit all of the official criteria for alcohol use disorder, every drinker can experience the benefits of not drinking alcohol.
Alcohol’s Effect on the Body and Mind
Drinking alcohol even in small amounts can give a person a feeling of relaxation and can lower inhibitions. This is due to the presence of ethanol, a psychoactive and toxic substance.
While no amount of alcohol is completely risk-free, heavy or frequent drinking has negative effects on the body. Beyond the headache and nausea of a hangover, it affects every part of the body. Heavy alcohol consumption over time has been linked to cancer, brain damage, and cardiovascular problems, as well as liver disease and a weakened immune system. Moderate to heavy alcohol consumption has also been linked to undesired weight gain: eating habits induced by drinking are often unhealthy, and alcohol itself is high in calories.
Beyond these serious physical issues, drinking alcohol negatively impacts your sleep, skin, and even sex drive. It has been linked to depression and lack of energy as well. It can increase your risk of accidents since it impairs judgment, harming you or others. Alcohol consumption can also negatively impact your finances, with more money going towards procuring drinks than perhaps you intended.
Health Benefits of Not Drinking Alcohol
Even a moderate drinker can experience the benefits of not drinking alcohol. Though it may take time to get the toxins fully out of your system, you can expect many improvements in your body and mind.
Skin
Alcohol dries out your body. Not drinking allows your skin to re-hydrate, looking more youthful, glowing, and healthy. It can also cause a decrease in blemishes and dry spots.
Sleep
While some people use alcohol to help them fall asleep, it is not good at keeping you asleep. After it is metabolized, you will have fitful periods of wakefulness, leading to grogginess and exhaustion the next day. Among other benefits of not drinking alcohol is better-quality sleep.
Weight Loss
Another benefit of not drinking alcohol can be weight loss. Anecdotal evidence indicates that alcohol consumption is associated with unwanted weight gain, either from the unhealthy eating habits brought on by a couple of beers, the calories in alcohol itself, or a combination. Quitting drinking can help you get to your desired weight.
Mental Health
Heavy alcohol consumption has a negative effect on your mental health. It’s impacts on your body, mind, and sleep combine to create a perfect storm for depression and anxiety. It can numb emotions, making it harder to deal with life’s problems. Quitting alcohol can increase self-esteem and open up the tools you need to address issues rather than hiding from them.
Benefits of Not Drinking Alcohol Timeline
These desired benefits of not drinking alcohol do not happen overnight, but you will start to notice positive effects even after one day. While everyone’s body is different, a timeline for recovery often looks like this:
After 1-3 Days
Especially for those struggling with alcohol use disorder and entering long-term alcohol rehab, this can be the roughest part. Lingering hangovers, withdrawal symptoms, or even (in severe cases) delirium tremens are all part of the body de-toxifying itself. It’s important to remember that some alcohol withdrawal symptoms are dangerous and are best experienced under the care of a residential addiction treatment program.
Some people will experience mood swings, fitful sleep, and anxiety during these first few days as their bodies learn to stop relying on alcohol.
After One Week
The worst of the withdrawal symptoms should have faded now, and the body’s repair work can begin. The liver will begin to heal, and risks of developing cardiovascular disease will begin to go down. You may even start to notice improvements in your skin, energy, sleep, and digestion.
After One Month
You should really start feeling the positive benefits now. Anxiety and depression will lessen, and the brain will begin to repair itself. Blood pressure should also have normalized.
After 6 Months – 1 Year
Risks of developing alcohol-related diseases have now gone way down, and you will begin to feel more creative, energetic, and fulfilled in relationships. You are well on your way to an alcohol-free life and all the benefits it includes.
How to Stop Drinking Alcohol
Deciding to stop drinking alcohol is a significant step toward improving your health and well-being. Here are some effective strategies to help you on your journey:
- Set Clear Goals: Determine your reasons for wanting to stop drinking and set specific, achievable goals. Whether you want to quit entirely or reduce your consumption, having a clear intention can motivate you to stay on track.
- Understand Your Triggers: Identify situations, emotions, or people that trigger your desire to drink. Once you understand these triggers, you can develop strategies to avoid or manage them effectively.
- Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or support groups who can provide encouragement and understanding. Consider talking to a professional counselor or therapist who specializes in addiction for personalized guidance.
- Explore Alternatives: Find enjoyable non-alcoholic beverages or activities that don’t revolve around drinking. Engaging in hobbies, exercise, or social events can help fill the void left by alcohol.
- Consider Professional Treatment: If you find stopping drinking particularly challenging, look into specialized treatment options. Facilities like Integrative Life Center offer holistic recovery programs designed to address the unique challenges faced by individuals dealing with alcohol use.
By implementing these strategies and seeking the right support, you can take meaningful steps toward stopping drinking and building a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Get Help Today for Alcohol Addiction
Are you interested in pursuing the benefits of not drinking alcohol? You do not have to take this journey alone. Consider the support of an alcohol addiction treatment program. A holistic treatment program will address not only the alcohol abuse but also its root causes, providing the emotional, spiritual, and physical support you need to recover. Many programs use trauma informed care to help you find true healing.
Alcohol Addiction Recovery in Nashville, TN
The Integrative Life Center in Nashville, TN, can help you start your journey to recovery. Consult our addiction treatment guide to discover the programs we offer. Our trauma informed therapists will guide you through the healing process, and our holistic treatment for alcoholism includes everything from nutrition support to yoga to talk therapy and trauma coping strategies. If you or a loved one is ready to explore the benefits of not drinking alcohol, give us a call today at (615) 610-5399.
