7 ways Sober October could change your life - including night-time gamechanger

As October, colder days, and darker evenings loom, many people across Ireland might be tempted to challenge themselves by taking part in Sober October. 

Essentially, it is what it says on the tin - you remain completely sober for the month of October.

Taking part in this challenge will not only test yourself but it can actually have profound effects on both your mental and physical health, according to mental health charity, Turn2Me. 

It's calling on people to use next month as a chance to prioritise your wellbeing. 

“Alcohol is often normalised in Irish culture, but it can have a significantly detrimental impact on our mental health,” Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said.

“Even small amounts can disrupt sleep, increase anxiety, and lower mood. Sober October is a chance to step back, reflect on our relationship with alcohol, and feel the benefits of clear-headed living. It’s about giving your mind and body the chance to reset,” she added.

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Turn2Me has revealed seven reasons as to why you should try Sober October this year:

1. Better sleep: Alcohol interferes with the quality of rest, leaving people groggy and anxious. Without it, sleep patterns often improve.
2. Reduced anxiety: Alcohol can initially numb feelings, but it often rebounds as heightened anxiety the next day. Skipping it can stabilise mood.
3. Improved focus: Clarity of mind, concentration, and memory improve when alcohol is removed from daily life.
4. No next-day ‘Fear’: When you cut out alcohol, you don’t need to worry about what you said or did, or stress about spending money you didn’t intend to.
5. More energy: Without the depressive effects of alcohol, energy levels rise, supporting better mental resilience.
6. Healthier coping strategies: Taking a break encourages people to replace alcohol with more positive outlets like exercise, reading, or time in nature.
7. Social connection: By choosing sober activities, people can strengthen relationships built on meaningful connection rather than drinking. 

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It is important to note that Sober October is not about judging yourself or others, rather it is about awareness and balance. 

“Even one alcohol-free month can show people how much lighter, calmer, and more focused they feel. It can be a catalyst for longer-term changes,” O’Malley added.

The concept originally started in Australia in 2010 and was called Ocsober.

Sober October as we now know it began in the UK in 2014 and has since become a global movement.