Curious about why women might be sober curious?

It seems like there’s a whole corner of the internet devoted to the sober curious movement right now, and it doesn’t appear to be a passing trend—it's more a cultural shift that's challenging the way people think about their relationship with alcohol. At its core, it means being curious about what it might be like to cut down on drinking; potentially exploring alternative ways to socialise, relax, and unwind. Instead of automatically reaching for a drink in social situations, people are starting to drink more mindfully, asking themselves, "Do I really need this? And how does alcohol really make me feel?"

While it’s been in the ether for many years, the sober curious movement has enjoyed the spotlight more recently thanks in part to sub-groups of social media influencers, often young women, who promote cutting down or quitting as healthy and enjoyable, even in social settings where alcohol has traditionally had a firm hold. (The grip of the grape perhaps?).

There’s many reasons why women in particular might be drawn to the sober curious movement. For example, a great thing about it is its inclusivity. It's not just for people who are concerned about their drinking —it's for anyone who wants to take a closer look at their relationship with alcohol, regardless of how much or how often they drink. This could appeal to women who may have been put off by the traditional duality of ‘problem drinkers’ on the one hand, and the rest of the population on the other; allowing women an opportunity to talk about their relationship with alcohol and gain valuable support without feeling embarrassed or worried.

Women’s health is another commonly cited reason. Women's bodies are more susceptible to the effects of alcohol than men's. Women tend to have lower body weight, higher body fat percentage, and generally less water in their bodies, which means that alcohol can hit them harder and faster. Plus, there's the fact that alcohol has been linked to a host of health issues, including liver disease, breast cancer, and heart problems. And nobody misses those pesky hangovers or the dreaded hangxiety!

Some women highlight mental health as a significant prompt for being sober curious, particularly if alcohol has become their go to way to deal with stress, anxiety, or feelings of sadness or depression. It gives women an opportunity to find alternative and more nourishing ways to manage emotions and take care of themselves.

Other women have identified a desire for authenticity and connection as a drawcard for the sober curious movement. Alcohol has a way of clouding people’s judgment and potentially leading them to say and do things they wouldn't normally do; creating barriers to genuine connection with others. By cutting back or quitting altogether, women can reclaim their authenticity and show up fully in their relationships, careers, and communities. Some say it's like taking off a pair of sunglasses and seeing the world in full colour.

Of course, cutting down or quitting alcohol isn't always easy. It can be a journey filled with ups and downs, challenges and triumphs. There may be social pressure to drink, feelings of FOMO (fear of missing out), and moments of temptation along the way. But for many women, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. From improved health to deeper connections to a greater sense of self-care, being sober curious can open up a whole new world of possibilities.

So, if you're sober curious, there's never been a better time to explore what life looks like with cutting down or quitting alcohol. It's a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and growth. And who knows? You might just discover a version of yourself that you never knew existed.