How these people's lives have changed since quitting alcohol

Many readers say they adjusted to socialising without alcohol. (Adobe Stock) Link copiedShareShare articleHave you ever wondered what your life would look like without alcohol? Natalie Jones recently wrote about how quitting alcohol taught her a lot about herself. This is what readers had to say about leaving alcohol behind and its impact on their health, friendships and lifestyle. Many readers say they turned their backs on booze for their health, while others say they felt so much better after a period of not drinking alcohol that they never went back. "I kicked booze for health reasons. While socially there was no expectation that I would pick up a glass again, and nobody asks anymore, I've noticed a lot of my close mates have also decided to reduce their drinking. "We had a boys' trip and the six of us couldn't get through a dozen beers over two nights. We used to do a dozen each in one sitting!" — Alex "An unexpected epilepsy diagnosis at the age of 57 has revealed a wide array of life restrictions. "The support of specialists, educators, nurses and programs has actually revealed a new chapter of self-awareness, greater joy in the small things and the palpable clarity that a no-alcohol lifestyle unveils. "Deeper friendships and connected conversations, no wine has shown no whine, truly thoughtful, positive and purposeful talks with friends. "No rejection from my close friends, rather adapting to more catch-ups running, brunching and sharing. "No alcohol has led to deeper friendships." — Angela "After a friend kept nagging me to do Dry July with her, I finally agreed and at the end of the month I felt so good that I decided to stop altogether. "My husband stopped sometime later and both of us live fuller, more rewarding lives without it. He drinks alcohol-free beer occasionally and I drink soda or sparkling water with lime. "[It's] one of the best things I've ever done for my health, wellbeing and longevity. "We still occasionally have a glass of bubbles on special occasions but don't miss it." — Ali A recent poll shows 44 per cent of Australians who drink alcohol want to drink less or stop altogether. There are strategies to help. Some readers found quitting alcohol easier on their social lives than others. "I stopped drinking alcohol almost two years ago and I feel great. "Every time I'm out at a social event I grab a glass of orange juice instead, which I enjoy. I can honestly remember the event and my conversations and drive home safely. "It's also helped me save money [by not spending] on alcohol and Uber!" — Sri "When my partner had to give up alcohol for medical reasons, I kept drinking for a while but eventually gave up too. "Now, about eight years down the track, I can confidently say that I don't drink at all and I'm happy to tell people that when out socially. "I am always pleased to feel in control." — Jenny "I was never a big drinker, but drinking was a ubiquitous part of my social fabric. I had my last drink about six months ago and haven't really looked back. I'm not noticeably fitter or healthier but I don't have the subtle negative mental health impacts for the two or three days after having a few drinks. "A few short years ago the idea of it being 'normal' for a middle-aged, middle- class guy in Australia to not drink seemed preposterous, yet now more and more of my mates have quit drinking entirely. Readers say they've made a habit of ordering juice, soda water or soft drink instead. (Pexels: Towfiqu Barbhuiya) For others readers, alcohol is something they still miss but it's simply not worth it. "I gave up drinking alcohol the day after Anzac Day in 2023. "At the time, I owned and operated a wedding reception venue. Drinking alcohol was just par for the course, except it wasn't. COVID-19 had been a proverbial nightmare, and my consumption was getting progressively worse. I had a fully stocked bar and no supervision. "After that Anzac Day, I felt truly awful. I decided that morning, enough was enough. The main issue for me was I didn't just consume wine, I studied it and I loved the whole wine- making process. It was a huge part of my life. "My friends would forever say 'have a glass, one won't hurt', but I had come to the sad realisation that one did matter. "I have lost friends as I'm no longer the instigator of long lunches or inviting them over to share 'a little jewel I've found'. "I felt part of what was me had gone. Three years later when asked if I miss 'it' I say, 'only between the hours of 7am and 11pm. The rest of the time, no'." — Miles Copy linkFacebookX (formerly Twitter)Top StoriesNot moving jobs, states or starting businesses: Data says Australians are stuckTopic:Economic Trends and Indicators

How these people's lives have changed since quitting alcohol

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