What Is Sober October?
Sober October encourages people to go booze-free in October to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Why Go Sober?
By going Sober this October, you’ll be raising vital funds for Macmillan, so we can continue providing much-needed physical, financial and emotional support to the millions of people living with cancer. We need you to do whatever it takes to go as sober as you can.
Perks of going sober
- Helping people living with cancer. By taking part in Sober October and raising money, you are helping Macmillan to do whatever it takes to support people from the moment of cancer diagnosis.
- More time on your hands. You’ll have time to fit in a morning gym class or weekend run, check out the breakfast menu at a new restaurant or learn something new once you’ve banished those horrible hangovers.
- Better sleeping pattern. Alcohol can disrupt your sleep pattern meaning you spend less time in more restful deep sleep. You’ll wake up with a spring in your step and increased energy levels – who knows what greatness you could achieve?!
- A happier bank balance. By giving those alcoholic drinks a miss, just think how much you’ll save! When you stop spending money on alcohol, you’ll be saving yourself money. Why not treat yourself to something nice to celebrate sticking to your Sober October goals?
- A healthier you. With a clearer head, clearer skin and free from hangovers, you’ll be feeling on top of the world.
- More energy. Hangover-free and refreshed you’re likely to have more energy. Maybe now is the time to take up a new hobby or kick-start a fitness regime?
- Weight loss. You might have already started to notice some weight loss. Alcoholic drinks are high in empty calories and regularly adding lots of extra calories on top of your recommended daily intake can make it difficult to maintain or lose weight.
Tips For a Successful Sober October
Understand the effects of alcohol
Understanding what effect alcohol has on your mind and body can help motivate you to stay on track. From heart health to anxiety and depression alcohol can have a wide-ranging effect on our bodies.
Alcohol-free alternatives
Sparkling mineral water is great – but there are many other alcohol alternatives out there. Why not make a mocktail, try an alcohol-free beer or even one of the new alcohol-free ‘spirits’?
Tackle your triggers
Understand what prompts you to have a drink so you can stay in control and avoid old habits.