‘Knowing how it works for me’: a qualitative interview study of the use of personalised approaches to manage common challenges during Dry January

Background: Participation in temporary abstinence challenges such as Dry January is associated with benefits including enduring reductions in alcohol consumption. However, undertaking temporary abstinence requires people to negotiate certain challenges. Building on previous research, we examined how and why particular strategies were used to address challenges and how use developed following January. Given differences in reported outcomes, we also explored differences and similarities in strategy use between ‘official’ UK Dry January registrants and those attempting an ‘unofficial’ alcohol-free January. Method: We conducted 16 online semi-structured interviews with individuals who participated ‘officially’ or ‘unofficially’ in Dry January 2022 and who, prior to this, were regular drinkers. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and themes constructed around the common challenges people faced and the strategies used to address them. Results: Four themes were generated: breaking the routine, dealing with socialising whilst not drinking, avoiding loss of motivation, and dealing with the potential for ‘failure.’ People took personalised approaches to addressing these challenges, retaining the meaning of important rituals and practices whilst still changing their alcohol consumption. This personalisation was reflected in the variation in strategy use and adaptation of strategies over time. Despite overall variation in strategy use, many strategies were employed by both ‘official’ and ‘unofficial’ participants. Conclusions: Dry January provides an opportunity for people to learn what strategies do and do not work for them. Capitalising on the flexibility of Dry January to offer additional opportunities for personalisation may help people get the most from their Dry January experience.