LUBBOCK, TX– The term “Dry January” has grown in popularity over the years. This means for the month of January you either cut back on alcohol or cut out alcohol all together. TTUHSC Clinical Psychiatrist Dr. Poorvanshi Alag said for some participating in this trend can help with long term changes, but things will get worse before they improve.
“What really happens is that one notices worsening anxiety. The second thing that people notice is in the first few weeks the cravings happen to get worse,” Dr. Alag said.
Lubbock man loses home to fire while preparing for Sunday sermon
This adjustment period she said is normal and does not mean the “Dry January” is not working. This all means your body and brain are trying to work together. She also mentioned even though one month may not seem like a lot of time, one month can be the start to long term changes.
“If you’re not willing to quit altogether, even if you can cut down a tiny bit….and make sure you’re not using it as an aid or crutch…some is better than none,” Dr. Alag said.
Another important things she noted was if you start to notice alcohol impacting your daily life, it may be time to seek help from a professional.
“The goal is not to judge or make you feel bad…the goal is really if you can seek the help you’re looking for it is obviously life changing long term,” Dr. Alag said.