As July rolls around, so does the annual health challenge that gets Kiwis talking: Dry July. It’s simple in theory: no alcohol for 31 days. But it’s more than just a test of willpower, it’s a chance to boost your health, take a break from the beers or vino, and raise funds for a good cause.
But is it all upside? Let’s weigh up the pros and cons of hopping aboard the Dry July train.
✅ The Pros of Going Dry
1. A Health Reset
One of the biggest perks of cutting alcohol is the way your body responds. Many people report:
- Better sleep
- More energy
- Improved mood and mental clarity
- Healthier skin
- Weight loss (especially if alcohol is a regular habit)
2. Money in Your Pocket
Let’s be honest, booze isn’t cheap. Whether it’s after-work drinks, wine with dinner, or craft beers on the weekend, it all adds up. A month off can leave a noticeable dent in your spending and not your liver.
3. A Check-In with Your Habits
Dry July is a great time to reflect on your relationship with alcohol. Are you drinking out of habit? Stress? Social pressure? Taking a break can help you reset and maybe even change how you drink long-term.
4. Raising Funds for a Good Cause
This isn’t just about you. By signing up for Dry July NZ, you can raise funds for New Zealanders affected by cancer. The money goes toward comfort and support services in cancer treatment centres around the country.
Other similar challenges you can get behind include:
- Ocsober (run by Life Education in Australia)
- Hello Sunday Morning’s Daybreak app, supporting people to change their relationship with alcohol
But Dry July is the biggie here in Aotearoa, and a great way to give back while doing something good for yourself.
🤔 The Cons (Yes, There Are Some)
1. Social FOMO
Let’s be real, in New Zealand, alcohol is a big part of social life. Not drinking can feel awkward or isolating, especially if you’re heading out with mates who are still on the beers.
2. The “Hero Month” Effect
Some people go all-in during Dry July, then binge in August to “make up for it”. This kind of yo-yo drinking misses the point – the goal isn’t just a detox, it’s awareness and longer-term balance.
3. Pressure to Drink Again
Even after a successful month, the social pressure to return to old habits can creep back in. That’s why it’s helpful to think of Dry July as a reset, not just a pause.
Final Thoughts
Dry July is more than just a health challenge, it’s a powerful mix of personal growth and collective impact. Whether you’re doing it for your health, to support someone with cancer, or just for the challenge, it’s worth a shot.
Just remember: it’s not about perfection, it’s about progress. If you slip up, no worries. Keep going. And if you complete the month? Even better.
So, are you in?
Keen to give it a go? Sign up or donate at dryjuly.co.nz – your liver (and someone else’s life) might just thank you.