Is Damp January the Challenge You’ve Been Searching For?

This year, Damp January has surfaced as a gentler alternative to the Dry January trend, permitting the enjoyment of moderate drinking rather than complete abstinence from alcohol.

Influential TikTok bartenders have embraced this trend by crafting low-alcohol beverages featuring citrus juice, bitters, soda water, and simple syrup.

“I view bitters similarly to vanilla extract or kombucha,” shared Kaitlyn Stewart, known as @likeablecocktails on TikTok. She demonstrated a lemon-lime bitters drink, noting its minimal alcohol content due to just a few dashes of bitters.

Opting for low-ABV drinks or engaging in the Damp January initiative can provide a pathway for those looking to cut back on alcohol, especially since consumption spiked during the pandemic.

“Finding low or alcohol-free favorites can help shift reliance on alcohol for enjoyment,” explained Katie Witkiewitz, PhD, director of the Center on Alcohol, Substance Use, and Addictions at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque.

For many, Damp January may lead to reconsidering prior drinking habits, especially given increasing research linking alcohol to health risks.

While the Dietary Guidelines for Americans advise that men consume no more than two drinks per day and women one, the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction recommends a maximum of two drinks per week for Canadians.

“At lower levels, the risks are minimal, but they increase significantly at higher levels, which relates to the premise of Damp January,” remarked Tim Naimi, MD, MPH, director of the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research at the University of Victoria. “For many, reducing drinking is likely beneficial for health.”

Damp January May Offer a Reset

While health benefits exist, some may resist cutting out alcohol due to social pressures.

“If drinking brings joy and social opportunities, while incorporated into other life-enhancing activities, it can be helpful to engage in those areas while moderating alcohol intake,” stated Witkiewitz.

Experts contend that Damp January may serve as a chance to reassess personal relationships with alcohol, whether it involves limiting drinking to social situations or opting for lower-ABV choices.

Finding a partner for accountability and creating different ways to celebrate without alcohol can aid in achieving damp drinking objectives once January wraps up.

“The goal is to set specific, measurable targets that make sense for you,” Naimi advised.

Damp Drinking Is Not For Everyone

“As someone in recovery, the Damp January trend can be disheartening,” shared Gillian Tietz, MS, host of the Sober Powered Podcast in Boston, Massachusetts.

Tietz explained that for individuals faced with alcohol challenges, Damp January may create the illusion that moderate drinking is achievable.

“This trend can reinforce the stigma surrounding addiction, implying it’s merely a choice or a weakness,” Tietz pointed out. “For those like me unable to control drinking, it’s more practical to abstain entirely.”

Connecting with others through shared experiences can be uplifting. Tietz recommends those reevaluating their approach to alcohol immerse themselves in the sober curious community.

Tietz noted she has experienced remarkable physical and mental benefits since quitting alcohol in 2019.

“The most significant benefit is enhanced self-worth,” she noted. “While drinking, I struggled with self-hatred, believing I conformed to the negative beliefs surrounding addiction. I thought if only I could strengthen my will, I’d manage to drink in moderation.”