{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"Welcome to Dry January | 14 Answers to Your Alcohol & Sobriety Questions","description":"Struggling with Dry January or thinking of cutting back on alcohol? In this bonus Recoverycast episode, guest host Riley Whelan fields the 14 most\u2011asked questions about Dry January and sober curiosity. She explains how a social media challenge became a powerful way to explore your relationship with alcohol. Whether you\u2019ve never gone a week without drinking or you\u2019re just curious about sobriety, Riley shares practical tips for starting one day at a time, coping with emotional and physical withdrawals, and understanding the true benefits of a 30\u2011day alcohol detox. Find mental health and addiction treatment near you: https:\/\/recovery.com\/ You\u2019ll learn why accountability is crucial, how to deal with cravings and boredom, and whether you should avoid parties or simply switch to mocktails with supportive friends. Riley talks openly about the discomfort of early sobriety\u2014from mood swings to loneliness\u2014and offers healthier ways to reward yourself than grabbing a bottle. She also discusses navigating relationships when your partner isn\u2019t on board, building confidence without \u201cliquid courage,\u201d and finding sober\u2011curious communities online or in your city. If Dry January reveals deeper concerns, Riley explains when to seek professional help and how to connect with 12\u2011step programs or treatment centers. Tune in for a compassionate, candid Q&A that makes sobriety feel less intimidating and more empowering. \u23f1\ufe0f Chapters: 00:00 \u2013 Intro: Dry January Q&A With Riley Whelan 00:21 \u2013 What Is Dry January & Why Do People Do It? 01:03 \u2013 How Do I Start Dry January If I\u2019ve Never Gone a Week Without Drinking? 02:09 \u2013 How Long Does It Take to Feel Better After Stopping Alcohol? 03:12 \u2013 Should I Tell People I\u2019m Doing Dry January or Keep It Private? 03:55 \u2013 How Do I Deal With Alcohol Cravings, Stress & Boredom? 05:07 \u2013 Should I Avoid Parties or Bars During Dry January? 06:24 \u2013 How Do I Stay Motivated When Everyone Around Me Is Drinking? 07:49 \u2013 What If My Partner Doesn\u2019t Want to Do Dry January? 09:09 \u2013 How Can I Feel Confident Without Alcohol? 10:32 \u2013 Is It Normal to Feel Lonely, Sad or Restless Without Drinking? 11:48 \u2013 How Do I Reward Myself Without Alcohol? 13:06 \u2013 Where Can I Meet Sober or Sober-Curious People? 14:57 \u2013 What If Dry January Makes Me Realize I Need Help? 16:31 \u2013 Final Thoughts & Where to Find Support #DryJanuary #SoberCurious #QuitDrinking ","author_name":"Recoverycast: Mental Health & Addiction Recovery Stories","author_url":"https:\/\/www.buzzsprout.com\/2465151","html":"