Substances

Andy Simon, LAPC

Many, (possibly you!) chose to participate in “Dry January,” also known as a one-month alcohol campaign, or OMAC. After a holiday season where one’s consumption may have been more than desired, a month-long break from drinking can provide a chance to reset and evaluate substance use goals for the new year. Research shows that completing a month of sobriety is correlated with healthier consumption and overall mental health benefits after the month is over, including up to as much as six months later (de Ternay et al., 2022). This study also argued that those who completed a similar period of sobriety also achieved greater overall physical health, as the period was used by many as a chance to gain greater control of their overall health, not limited to their substance use (de Ternay et al., 2022).

Whether you are seeking a break from use and want to process the impacts that substances have on your daily life, or you are seeking full sobriety, counseling can help you succeed. Overcoming substance use often requires a team of support and a counselor can be a helpful part of this team. Often, simply understanding the triggers that lead one to use substances and having accountability around that use is a solid foundation to beginning a journey toward sobriety. Since many people use substances as a way to cope with difficult situations, understanding your reaction to challenges in your life and improving coping skills also goes a long way to changing your behavior. If you or someone you know would like to change behaviors toward substances in 2025, Bethel Haven has many licensed therapists who can help you along your journey. Please reach out to schedule an appointment; we look forward to working with you.

de Ternay, J., Leblanc, P., Michel, P., Benyamina, A., Naassila, M., & Rolland, B. (2022). One-month alcohol abstinence national campaigns: A scoping review of the harm reduction benefits. Harm Reduction Journal, 19(1), 24-24. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12954-022-00603-x