Dry/Drink Less January

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January is the perfect time for a fresh start, and the Dry/Drink Less January challenge offers just that.

Whether the goal is to boost fitness, save money, or simply feel sharper and more energised, taking a break from alcohol can have a powerful impact not only on an individual’s health and wellbeing, but also on an organisation’s overall productivity and performance levels.

Alcohol and the workplace

Alcohol often shows up in work culture – whether at networking events, after-work drinks, or celebrations. While these occasions can feel social and fun, they can also normalise drinking and make it harder for individuals to cut back.

Why it matters

  • Even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgment and increase mistakes
  • Drinking can worsen anxiety and depression, reducing productivity
  • Alcohol use is linked to presenteeism (being at work but underperforming) and absenteeism
  • Safety-critical industries face higher risks when employees drink

Who’s most at risk?

Certain factors increase vulnerability to harmful drinking:

  • High-stress roles or shift work
  • Low job security or lack of control over workload
  • Industries with strong drinking cultures (hospitality, construction, media, etc.)
  • Working from home, which lowers barriers to drinking

What can employers do?

  • Develop a supportive alcohol policy
  • Provide education and access to confidential support
  • Foster a culture where help-seeking is encouraged– not judged

Making even small changes to drinking habits can boost energy, mood, memory, and productivity. Dry/Drink Less January is a great first step toward a healthier, more balanced year.

What can you do?

Raise awareness in support of Dry January – as well as at other key times of the year.

Encourage employees to:

  • Download the Try Dry® app (App Store & Google Play)
  • Sign up for free daily motivational emails from Alcohol Change UK that you can then share with your employees to keep them inspired and motivated throughout the month.

Encourage and support staff to join Lena’s free taster webinar where they’ll explore:

  • The benefits of taking a break from alcohol
  • How to build a healthier relationship with drinking beyond January
  • Practical tools for navigating social situations and stress without alcohol
  • Setting realistic goals for mindful drinking throughout the year

Remind staff of the supports available

Use internal communications in your workplace to raise awareness, to talk about the benefits, to promote taking part, and to highlight where people can get more information and/or support (such as by emailing Lena, by calling their helpline number, or by visiting the ‘Alcohol and Mental Health’ section of the Lena Support Hub.