Reasons Why Some People Don’t Drink

In many countries, particularly in the UK, alcohol can feel like a big part of your social life. From going out at the weekend, going for an evening meal or drinks after work, lots of social activities revolve around alcohol. However, the number of people, especially young people, in the UK choosing not to drink is increasing. Here are some reasons why someone chooses not to drink, and the common misconceptions about being sober.
Cultural or Religious Beliefs
In many cultures and religions, abstaining from alcohol is the norm. Several major religions, including Islam and certain denominations of Christianity, discourage or prohibit alcohol consumption. In some cultures, there’s a different approach to alcohol. Social events may centre around food, music, or dancing, instead of drinking.
Physical Health
Some people avoid alcohol because of their health. It could be a health condition, medication they take, or just trying to cut back on alcohol to improve their health. Stopping drinking temporarily is common during fitness challenges, pregnancy, or events like ‘Dry January’.
Mental Health
For some people, alcohol harms their mental health, so they choose to avoid drinking for their wellbeing. Because alcohol is a depressant it can worsen feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress, making mental health challenges harder to manage.
Past Experiences
Having bad experiences with alcohol, whether from your own drinking or seeing how it negatively impacts friends or family, can really change how you feel about it and make you want to quit drinking altogether.
Breaking Misconceptions About Non-Drinkers
People who don’t drink can face assumptions about their choice. These misconceptions can create misunderstandings and reinforce stereotypes. Here are some of the most common myths:
“Sober people aren’t fun”
Having fun looks different for everyone. A person might revaluate what social events they attend if they’re going sober, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t want to have fun. Fun comes in other ways, from being around friends to enjoying good music or dancing. Many non-drinkers are more engaging and present, which often makes social experiences better.
“They’re judging me”
A sober person’s choice isn’t a judgment of what other people do. Sober people know that they’re probably in the minority on a night out, and their goal is to have fun, not to judge others. If you’re feeling scared of judgment, it could be coming from your own insecurity.
“They don’t want to come out”
The myth that once a person is sober, they have to stay away from all places that serve alcohol and people who drink is a very common one. Only they will know where they feel comfortable going, so it’s best to ask.
Someone might have no reason, or lots of reasons not to drink alcohol. For many people, being sober is totally normal and they have fun and fulfilling lives without drinking. If there’s something on your mind, Meic can help. We’re open from 8am to midnight everyday, the support is confidential and anonymous and can be accessed in English and Welsh.
