Why Go Sober?

Sobriety is abstaining from drugs, alcohol, and other substances that might be harmful to our health. Here are 8 reasons why one should go sober:

1. Improved mental health.

People suffering from mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety tend to turn to alcohol to cope. Alcohol suppresses the body and mind’s impulses, and this contributes to suicidal tendencies. Sobriety works in favor of improving mental health by cutting out dependence on alcohol through gradual abstinence and allowing you to seek healthier ways to improve your mental health.

2. Better quality of sleep

Alcohol is known to disrupt the sleeping patterns of alcohol users because it affects the normal mind and body functioning. Sobriety ensures that individuals maintain healthy sleeping patterns, which is important in preserving mental health.

3. Emotional regulation

Alcohol possesses both inhibiting and disinhibiting effects that affect the regulation of impulses and feelings. When a person is sober, they are able to easily anticipate and manage their emotions, and respond to stress with healthier coping mechanisms.

4. Enhanced cognitive function

When an individual is sober, they are able to think clearly, concentrate on important things and make better decisions in regards to their daily activities. This mental clarity is a sign of improved cognitive function.

5. Increase confidence

Alcohol use leads to hangover anxiety, which is characterized by feelings of stress, fear and panic. Removing alcohol from the equation allows a person to be more in control of themselves and their actions. This improved their self-confidence, self-awareness and self-esteem. All positive traits that guarantee good mental health.

6. Reduction in risky behaviors

A sober person is able to rationalize and make informed decisions on matters that affect them. Sobriety, therefore, allows them to comprehend potential harmful circumstances and steer clear of them.

7. Fostering better relationships

Interactions surrounding alcohol sometimes end up with conflicts because people are uninhibited and cannot think clearly. Sobriety plays a key part in fostering healthier relationships because there are clear lines of communication and people interact with clarity.

8. Work through underlying issues

Since sobriety includes therapy and counselling, it gives recovering alcoholics an opportunity to work through any underlying traumas and issues they have or had experienced in the past. This ensures they are mentally well and equipped with the tools to work through potential triggers and remain sober.

Although the sobriety journey is long and complex, the benefits greatly outweigh the low consuming moments. Sobriety and mental health go hand-in-hand in establishing stability in a person. Remember, the best way to start your journey is through accepting yourself and seeking support.

By Jeanine Omondi