For women, messages of self-care are everywhere. Eat well. Exercise. Take care of your mental health. Yet these messages get foggier when it comes to alcohol. It can seem justified to tip back a drink when it’s a social night out or after a long day of work or parenting.
Yet, a recent movement is challenging “wine mom” and party girl culture. It’s called sober curious, and it’s about exploring mindful drinking and sobriety in a fun, hip, and healthful way.
Let’s zoom in on the sober curious movement and see why more women today are embracing mindful drinking and alcohol-free living. What are the benefits, and how can the newly sober-curious get started on the path?
What is ‘sober curious’?
The sober curious catchphrase comes from a 2018 book of the same name by Ruby Warrington, who chronicles her journey from “gray-area problem drinking” to an alcohol-free lifestyle. Warrington’s book steers clear of judgment while proposing that abstaining from drink can be cool, trendy, and life affirming.
Yet instead of serving as an edict for total sobriety or recovery from addiction, the sober curious trend alludes to a lifestyle shift. It’s about re-evaluating one’s drinking habits rather than strictly committing to never drinking again. This approach can work for certain people—especially those who don’t fit into a standard definition of alcoholism yet notice that drinking is taking a toll on their life.
Why are more women sober-curious?
The health and wellness aspects of the movement are a strong lure. New research suggests that even moderate drinking carries health risks, and red wine has lost its “health elixir” luster.
Many women in high-pressure careers or caregiving roles notice that alcohol can negatively impact sleep, energy, and mood. Similarly, we’re seeing increased discussions (and less stigma) around anxiety, depression, and alcohol’s role in worsening mental health.
Changing social norms are making it easier for women to abstain. Zero-alcohol social events and alcohol-free communities are on the rise, and many bars and clubs include tasty mocktails and virgin drinks on their menus. Women are finding that a fun night out need not be alcohol-fueled. You can banish FOMO (fear of missing out) by making your own good time, whether it’s dancing or game night with friends.
Benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle
Compellingly, abstaining from drink leads to greater overall health. In January 2025, the U.S. Surgeon General released new guidance that drew a direct link between alcohol consumption and increased cancer risk. Certain chronic illnesses have also been linked to alcohol or are exacerbated by drinking.
A few improvements that the newly sober-curious will notice right away include better sleep, clearer skin, increased energy, and reduced anxiety. Relationships tend to get stronger and deeper once the veil of alcohol is lowered, fostering more authentic connections.
Financial benefits are likely, as reduced alcohol consumption is easier on the wallet. And personal growth can flourish for the sober curious, who may cultivate new hobbies, deeper self-awareness, and increased confidence.
How to begin
Feeling sober curious? Start small, perhaps by trying a 30-day alcohol-free challenge, and see how you feel. Events like Dry January and Sober October can be great catalysts, but you can create change any time of the year.
For social support, join sober curious groups, attend alcohol-free events, and follow social media accounts focused on mindful drinking. Many shops and supermarkets now offer a range of good-quality, zero-alcohol wines, beer, and spirits. You can also try journaling or therapy to understand any personal triggers and motivations for drinking.
And don’t forget: Aware Recovery Care is here to help! Our programs are personalized and tailored to your goals, whether you seek full sobriety through our In-Home Addiction Treatment™ (IHAT™) program, or you’re looking to reduce alcohol intake through a harm-reduction approach. In many states, we offer Virtual Detox and Virtual Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) from Anew by Aware to get you started on the sober curious journey.
It’s about meeting you where you’re at so you can effect change and, ultimately, live your best life.
