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With the festive season almost upon us, it can be a tricky time for those aiming to stay sober during the holidays. Alcohol is deeply steeped in our Christmas traditions and festivities, from office parties to New Year celebrations, making it extremely difficult for people to stick to their alcohol-free goals.
Why do we drink more during the festive season?
Research from alcohol charity Drinkaware revealed that almost two thirds (61%) of drinkers in the UK over-indulge with alcohol over the holidays more than they usually would, while one in five (18%) experience more hangovers during the festive season. But what is it about Christmas that has us reaching for the bottle more often? Here are some explanations:
- Social expectations – excessive drinking is almost considered the norm around the festive season. How often do we hear things like ‘it’s only once a year!’ or ‘oh come on, it’s Christmas!’?
- Stress reliever - social gatherings, travel, family get-togethers, gift shopping and meeting work deadlines before the holidays can leave many people feeling exhausted, tense and anxious. This often leads to excessive alcohol consumption as a way to unwind or switch off.
- Temptation is everywhere – an increase in parties, events and social activities throughout the festive season means you are more likely to be in places where alcohol is readily available and offered to you.
Our top tips on how to not drink during the holidays
While temptation might lie around every corner, there are ways to avoid drinking, or lower your alcohol consumption, this Christmas. Here are our top tips for staying booze-free during the holidays:
1. Be open and honest with friends and family
Be upfront about your alcohol-free goals with friends and family before the festive season. Not only will this mean you are more likely to avoid tricky situations at gatherings, but you might discover those around you will be keen to help you stick to your goals – you may even discover a non-drinking buddy who shares a similar aim!
2. Plan alcohol-free festive activities
Remember - Christmas festivities don’t have to centre around alcohol. Swap boozy nights out for movie nights with hot chocolate, romantic winter walks, ice-skating or enjoy a trip to a panto or Christmas market with friends.
3. Be the designated driver
Pick up your car keys instead of a drink this Christmas and you’ll suddenly find yourself very popular! But more importantly, being the designated driver is a great way to prevent you giving in to temptation and it’ll also stop others from asking awkward questions about why you’re not having ‘a proper drink’. Making sure everyone gets home safely while you enjoy a hangover-free morning the day after is definitely a win-win in our book!
4. Have an exit strategy
The likelihood is at some point or other you’ll be around alcohol this Christmas. If you know you are going to be in a boozy environment, plan an escape strategy and don’t be afraid to leave if it all becomes a bit much. Similarly, if family tensions start to creep in (as they often do at this time of year), make some time for yourself – find a quiet space alone to read a book, listen to music or take a walk.
5. Host a mocktail party
This is a firm favourite of ours at LiveWell Dorset! Below is a selection of mouth-watering drinks for a hangover-free Christmas celebration.
- Jingle juice punch - swap the usual rum for extra cranberry juice, then use a sparkling non-alcoholic cider in place of the wine.
- Spiced pomegranate mulled ‘wine’ - heat pomegranate juice, sugar, blackberries and apple juice together in a saucepan. Add 1 cinnamon stick, star anise, cloves, peppercorns and orange, then strain into heatproof glasses.
- Alcohol-free amaretto sour - whizz pineapple juice, lemon juice, egg white, cherry syrup and almond extract in a blender at a high speed, then pour into glasses and garnish with cherries to serve.
- Peppermint eggnog – leave the rum, bourbon or brandy out of your traditional eggnog and replace with peppermint extract for a creamy, mouth-watering beverage that oozes Christmas spirit…without the actual spirits.
- Non-alcoholic bucks fizz – see in the new year with a sparking glass of alcohol-free fizz. You can find bottles of non-alcoholic bucks fizz in many supermarkets or make your own with orange juice and a bottle of non-alcoholic prosecco.
For more booze-free inspiration, head over to our blog Make mine a mocktail!
Need more tips on how to stay sober during the holidays?
For more advice on how to avoid alcohol this Christmas, register with LiveWell Dorset today. Our team of expert coaches and advisors can provide one-on-one guidance on how to change your drinking habits now and in the future. You can also try our Are you Living Well? quiz to see how you compare to national guidelines.
