"Dry January is the ideal time to hit the reset button": Residents urged to give up alcohol next month

'Dry January' sees thousands around the UK stop drinking for 31 days in an attempt to reset their relationship with alcohol after the festive period.

Many who take part in the annual challenge report feeling healthier, saving money and sleeping better.

Councillor Jim Beall, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Leisure and Culture, said: "It's very easy to over-indulge during the Christmas holidays and drink a lot of alcohol, so Dry January is the ideal opportunity to hit the reset button and improve your wellbeing.

"There are so many short-term and long-term benefits to cutting down on your alcohol in January and beyond, from the money you save to reducing your risk of developing many severe illnesses, including seven types of cancer.

"In fact, research has shown that alcohol is the biggest cause of death for people aged 15 to 49 in the UK and many people don't realise they are drinking at levels that can harm them.

"Doing Dry January can help you realise that you don't need alcohol to have fun, relax or to socialise.

"And that's why I'm urging residents to take part in Dry January. I'm sure everyone who does will feel positive changes to their physical and mental health, their sleep and their energy levels. It could change your life!"

You can check out your alcohol consumption and sign up for Dry January by visiting the dedicated website from Alcohol Change.

Localised support is also available from Change Grow Live, who can be reached on 01642 673888, or by emailing stockton.recovery@cgl.org.uk.