While the concept is nothing new — legend has it the Shirley Temple was the first — the modern mocktail is a sophisticated beverage that goes far beyond just removing the booze. It’s a gradual shift, but one that reflects a broader cultural change that’s inspired some local trailblazers to carve out new spaces in a growing segment. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has a 24/7 National Helpline, with services in English and Spanish, that can help sober curious with referrals to local treatment centers, support groups, and community-based organizations. You can also call or text 988 nationwide to connect with local support systems.

Mocktails and the rise of RTDs

Rather, it involves considering drinking less – and in some cases, not at all – and deciding to fit alcohol into your life more thoughtfully instead of mindlessly participating in drinking culture out of habit. With a search volume of over 1.3k per month, it’s definitely a movement that’s gaining in popularity. Being sober curious is a flexible, non-judgmental approach to examining your relationship with alcohol. It empowers you to make conscious choices that align with your personal well-being goals, whether that means moderating, taking breaks, or simply being more mindful.

Sober Curious? It’s Time to Do a Deep Dive on Mindful Drinking

Alcohol has a way of clouding the mind, making it harder to think clearly or stay productive. By cutting back or eliminating alcohol, you may notice a newfound mental clarity that helps you tackle your goals with more energy and focus. Those with a dependance on alcohol should detox at a medically supervised detox program and explore professional treatment at a licensed addiction treatment facility. Treatment can reduce your risk of experiencing dangerous alcohol withdrawal symptoms and provide a safe space to explore sobriety.

• These alternatives provide an opportunity for young adults to enjoy gatherings and celebrations while making more mindful choices about their consumption.
• If you find it difficult to avoid alcohol despite your best efforts, a good next step might involve reaching out to a professional who specializes in recognizing and treating alcohol dependence.
• Sans Bar has become so popular that Marshall took the concept on the road this year.
• Some businesses, like With Grace Marketplace — a bottle shop specializing in alcohol-free alternatives — are already doing this.

Health conscious and informed

Discover affordable rehab centers near you, offering easy access and convenience. Chronological age is measured by your birth date, but biological age measures how old your cells are. The more you drink, the more difficult it is for your cells to regenerate drug addiction and repair themselves.

Ending the Stigma of Mental Illness

In 2013, Alcohol Change UK created the Dry January movement, in which people pledged to give up drinking for the month. Since then, mocktails and nonalcoholic drinks have surged in popularity. If you find yourself questioning your drinking habits and realize that alcohol has become a problem, it might be time to reach out for professional help. At 12 South Recovery, we offer addiction treatment services designed to help individuals reclaim control of their lives and address substance use in a healthy, supportive environment. Our team is here to guide you through the process, whether you’re exploring sobriety or seeking a more structured recovery program. The “Sober Curious” movement has gained popularity as an approach to rethinking alcohol consumption.

Coined by Ruby Warrington in her 2019 book Sober Curious, the concept centers on an intentional, mindful relationship with drinking—allowing for flexibility rather than rigidity. As the cultural landscape reshapes, Gen Z—individuals born between 1997 and 2012—is redefining its relationship with alcohol. More are choosing to drink less or not at all, driven by wellness, awareness, and value shifts. Here’s a deep dive into what’s behind the trend and what the “sober curious” movement really encompasses.

While drinking used to be fun, Albertson has noticed that she isn’t finding it worth the side effects. “It doesn’t do anything for me now other than make me feel really sluggish and tired,” she explains. Thus, Albertson is limiting her drinks to just a few a month when she heads out with her friends or fiancé. While the sober curious movement isn’t necessarily about overcoming addiction, there is a significant overlap between the two.