Sober October is a month-long initiative organised by UK charity Macmillan Cancer Support that challenges social drinkers to switch their pints and pinots for soft alternatives and, ideally, raise money in doing so. If you’ve ever toyed with the idea of quitting alcohol, it can be a great way to dip your toes in and see if the sober life is for you – without a long-term commitment.

And the benefits of banning the booze – even if only for four weeks – are myriad.

Mental health benefits

Anyone who has ever experienced the grim reality of hangxiety will attest to the fact that alcohol negatively influences our mental health – and the experts are unanimous on this point.

Reduced anxiety

“In practice, alcohol often acts as a depressant,” says certified psychology expert and life coach Bayu Prihandito. “While it might offer temporary relief or even feelings of euphoria, the long-term effects include increased anxiety and depression. In my experience, people who quit drinking report an improved mood, clearer thinking and better sleep at night.”

Better sleep

Research shows that excessive consumption of alcohol affects sleep quality and duration, which can have an impact on our mental health. While drinking can make us feel tired, we’re far more likely to crash out and have junk sleep rather than restorative rest when we’ve enjoyed a tipple or two – and no one wants to wake up with a dry mouth and racing heart, right?

Improved concentration and productivity

We’ve all had days when we’ve dragged ourselves to the office feeling less-than-sprightly, and it’s not fun – or productive.

“It’s amazing how much more engaged and present you are in the moment when you wake up clear-headed,” says Beavis. “You also won’t lose a day feeling hungover and unproductive as a result of not drinking the night before. The health benefits and improvements from reducing or quitting drinking contribute to a general feel-good factor, which is so rewarding.”

Trying Sober October this year? Here’s what really happens to your body when you stop drinking for a month