“Dry January” has gained traction in recent years as more adults look to begin the year by cutting back on alcohol consumption.
But a new study finds that, increasingly, more participants in the trend have opted for a “damp” January rather than going completely cold-turkey.
A new survey by Morning Consult showed that nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults were taking part in Dry January, and 77% said they also did so last year.
Millennials comprise the largest portion of participants at 27% of those surveyed.
However, only 52% of respondents said they’re abstaining from alcohol completely; 24% said they would drink less than normal, and 23% said they’d drink only a few days.
The moderation approach may be key to Dry January gaining more participants. 2022’s 19% participation was up from 2021’s 13%.
The survey found that 91% of participants took part for health reasons, while 70% and 62%, respectively, said they’re trying to cut down on drinking or reset drinking habits.
