Mental Health Charity Urges Irish People to Try Sober October for Wellbeing Benefits

Turn2Me, a national mental health charity, is encouraging people across Ireland to consider taking part in Sober October as the month begins tomorrow, highlighting seven key mental health benefits of taking a break from alcohol.

With October starting tomorrow, the charity is calling on people to use the month as an opportunity to prioritise their wellbeing and reflect on their relationship with alcohol.

Fiona O'Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said:

"Alcohol is often normalised in Irish culture, but it can have a significantly detrimental impact on our mental health. Even small amounts can disrupt sleep, increase anxiety, and lower mood. Sober October is a chance to step back, reflect on our relationship with alcohol, and feel the benefits of clear-headed living."

She added that lifestyle choices like reducing alcohol can positively affect mental wellbeing: "It's about giving your mind and body the chance to reset."

The charity outlined seven compelling reasons to give Sober October a go. Better sleep tops the list, as alcohol interferes with the quality of rest, leaving people groggy and anxious. Without it, sleep patterns often improve significantly.

Reduced anxiety is another major benefit. While alcohol can initially numb feelings, it often rebounds as heightened anxiety the next day. Skipping it can help stabilise mood throughout the month.

Improved focus is a welcome side effect many participants notice. Clarity of mind, concentration, and memory all improve when alcohol is removed from daily life, making work and personal tasks easier to manage.

For many Irish people, avoiding the next-day 'Fear' is reason enough. When you cut out alcohol, there's no need to worry about what you said or did, or stress about spending money you didn't intend to.

More energy naturally follows. Without the depressive effects of alcohol, energy levels rise, supporting better mental resilience and making it easier to tackle daily challenges.

Taking a break also encourages healthier coping strategies. Instead of reaching for a drink, people often replace alcohol with more positive outlets like exercise, reading, or time in nature.

Finally, social connection can actually improve. By choosing sober activities, people can strengthen relationships built on meaningful connection rather than drinking.

Turn2Me stressed that Sober October is not about judgement, but about awareness and balance.

O'Malley concluded:

"Even one alcohol-free month can show people how much lighter, calmer, and more focused they feel. It can be a catalyst for longer-term changes."

Turn2Me provides free mental health support services to adults across Ireland, including up to six counselling sessions, support groups on anxiety, depression, grief or relationship issues, a 'Thought Catcher' online mood diary, and helpful articles on Turn2Me.ie