Somerset County Council Cllr Clare Paul's Dry January challenge

Cllr Paul, County Hall's cabinet member for health and wellbeing, aims to abstain from alcohol during the first month of the year.

During her Dry January challenge she will share her experiences on social media, along with tips on zero-alcohol alternatives such as mocktails.

Cllr Clare Paul

She said: “Like many, working remotely and therefore being at home so much this year has resulted in my alcohol consumption creeping up.

"Not needing to drive during lockdown, and so no designated driver duties and no risk of being over the limit the next morning, offered opportunities to have an extra cider.

"I am looking forward to the challenge of not drinking for a month and the benefits that will bring, but I know it is hard for some of us, so be kind to yourself and allow yourself to set your own Dry January challenges and goals.

"Whatever your personal motivation for wanting to drink less, I encourage everyone to join me.”

It has been a difficult year for all of us, and in a year of extraordinary change and uncertainty many people drunk alcohol to help manage stress, anxiety and depression – it has been said that drinking is the UK’s favourite coping mechanism.

At a time when adopting a healthy lifestyle has never been more important, many of us have found ourselves slipping into habits we know we should change.

Dry January 2021 is an opportunity to reset our drinking habits. According to research, the Dry January campaign helps people to drink more healthily year-round. Evidence shows 70% of participants still drink at a lower level six months later, it helps us to reset our relationship with alcohol.

Many of us know about the health risks of alcohol abuse – liver disease, mental health problems and even several forms of cancer among others.

However, we are often, unaware that drinking less has great immediate benefits too, including better sleep, feeling more energetic, saving money, losing weight and building a stronger immune system. Dry January helps millions of people to experience those benefits and to make a longer-lasting change.

Those who take on the official Dry January with support are twice as likely to stay dry throughout the month and to enjoy all the benefits, compared to those who try to do it alone.

Search online for ‘Dry January’, where you can sign up for coaching emails or download the free app, Try Dry, which enables you to track your units, calories and money saved throughout the month and set your own goals year-round.

If you drink very heavily regularly, Dry January may not be for you, check with your GP or local alcohol service before you start – help is available locally at: www.turning-point.co.uk/services/sdas

If you experience physical symptoms when you stop drinking (which may include but are not limited to shakes, sweating, restlessness, insomnia, nausea, stomach cramps or hallucinations) you should seek medical help urgently.