Alcohol is consumed by millions of people every day. Consuming alcohol is deeply engraved into social gatherings and is a common after work routine for many. Alcohol is frequently used for celebrations, it’s the reward for some exciting news or it's the cheers to seeing a long-lost friend.
At consumption it helps us relax, opens up emotions and releases dopamine in our brains which ultimately makes us feel good. Alcohol in moderation is not of concern and has even health benefits.
On the other hand, alcohol has commonly been used and abused as a substance to escape life. Unfortunately, overconsumption of alcohol in the long term can lead to depression, anxiety, loneliness and liver failure. Alcohol releases dopamine in your body which makes it highly addictive. While there are established services and support systems for alcohol addicts, I’m always asking the question:
What can I do the prevent addiction?
I believe part of the problem with alcoholism, is that there are not enough alternative places with a sober environment to socialize. A supporting community is often missing for people who want to reduce their alcohol consumption. Which is why I host sober events.
Why do I choose to live sober?
I have always lived the sober lifestyle and no, my life never seemed boring. Because of an early legal age of alcohol consumption in Europe, I was fully engaged in social drinking environments since I was 16. How did I endure partying until sunrise without any alcohol or other substances? The truth is that I never had a desire for it and here is why:
Growing up, my parents were involved at the local Salvation Army which worked with people who suffered from alcohol and/or drug addictions. I was raised with a awareness of the pain alcohol can cause and the harm it can bring to someone’s life and their communities. I could never understand why my friends would drink to the point of blacking out. I thought: “What is the point of having fun, if you can’t remember it?”
I remember this one house party I attended in Ireland, that truly marked my life. I experienced someone cheat on their spouse under the influence and the next morning, I witnessed a six year old girl telling her dad: “Daddy, you know you are not supposed to drink the hard stuff in the morning.”
This broke my heart.
At the age of 16, I decided that I would not drink alcohol out of solidarity to those who struggle every day. I have stayed true to my word ever since, trying to be a role model to the people around me. My decision has caused countless conversations and instead of peer pressure, I experienced mutual respect.
It is my hope and ambition to continue to be a voice, a friend and to grow a community of sober and mindful drinkers.
What is my dream?
My dream is to see a decrease in the amount of alcoholics. I am aware that it is impossible to eliminate alcohol from society but I truly believe it is possible to create a society knowing how to use alcohol in a healthy way.