Dry January catches the eye of Lowcountry health professionals, businesses

SUMMERVILLE, S.C. (WCSC) – A concept to promote sobriety and well-being has caught the eye of Lowcountry health professionals and businesses.

The Dry January campaign was kickstarted in the United Kingdom nearly a decade ago to create a new conversation surrounding alcohol consumption.

Since then, it has spread to all parts of the world, including the Lowcountry restaurant and bar scene.

“People that want to come out and have a good time, but still be included with their friends who do drink. Majority of the time people really love it,” LUXE Wine Bar Kitchen Manager Kamryn Bailey.

The Luxe Wine Bar in Summerville is one of many in the Lowcountry creating inclusive options for Dry January.

“We’ve copied our entire cocktail menu into mocktails, so everything is alcohol-free,” Bailey says.

The bar claims having more than a dozen alternatives can do wonders for business and create a welcoming environment for drinkers and non-drinkers alike.

“Being around Charleston, we have noticed mocktails are not as common. People coming in and seeing we have mocktails shows how we are here for everyone,” Bailey says.

Melissa Hickman, a licensed addiction counselor and advanced alcohol and drug counselor with the Live Oak Health and Wellness Hospital, claims Dry January can have positive impacts on physical and mental well-being.

“Some people may not even realize drinking has reached a high-risk level until they’ve abstained for 30 days,” Hickman says. “It gives you an opportunity to look at other lifestyle things, kind of assess what other things may be becoming detrimental because of alcohol use.”

Positive health effects can include lower cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure levels, weight loss and liver health, according to a study done by the National Library of Medicine.

Mental benefits could mean increased energy and a better attitude, outlook and sleep patterns.

The organization claims the campaign is not meant for those with dependency issues, more so for those who are steadily drinking often without registering the potential risks.

The Live Oak Health and Wellness Hospital is beginning a substance use and recovery program for anyone who is seeking help with dependency issues.

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