Whether you are sober curious, looking for a new personal challenge or simply want to support a good cause, Sober October is an opportunity to explore an alcohol-free life.
More people are becoming curious about their relationship with alcohol, whether that means drinking less, taking a temporary break or giving it up altogether. Having that choice is a positive development, and Sober October - organised by addiction treatment service Coolmine Therapeutic Community - offers an opportunity to discover how a month without alcohol might make a difference.
Last year, participants who took up the challenge found it helped them sleep better, feel more energised, save money and become more conscious of their drinking habits.
The national fundraising challenge invites participants to go alcohol-free for the 31 days of October while raising vital funds for Coolmine’s addiction treatment and recovery services.
Taking part is simple. Participants sign up at www.soberoctober.ie, create their own fundraising page and ask friends, family members and work colleagues to sponsor them. People can take part individually or create a team with friends, relatives, colleagues or members of their local club or community.
Irish content creators Dyl Troy and Melanie Murphy are among those supporting this year’s campaign and encouraging their online communities to get involved. Other supporters include Olivia Farrelly of Grey Area Drinker podcast and Colm Doolan from Sober Mess podcast.
Coolmine provides residential, community and day services to people affected by drug and alcohol addiction across the East, Midwest and Southwest of Ireland. Its services support people at every stage of recovery and provide essential help to children, partners and other family members affected by a loved one’s substance use.
“For many participants, Sober October is a 31-day personal challenge," said Sarah Joyce, head of fundraising and communications at Coolmine Therapeutic Community. "For the people who come through Coolmine’s doors, choosing an alcohol- or drug-free life can be a lifelong journey. By taking part, people can stand in solidarity with those in recovery while raising the funds needed to keep our services safe, warm and welcoming.
“The money raised will help us provide vital supports, including nutrition, education, personal development, pathways to employment and opportunities for people to reconnect with their families and communities. We are enormously grateful to Dyl and Melanie for supporting the campaign, and we hope people across Ireland will join us this October.”
Participants who have a wedding, birthday or other special event during October can remain part of the challenge by using a Golden Ticket. In return for a €15 donation, the ticket provides a 24-hour pass while allowing the participant to retain their Sober October status.
To register, create a team or support somebody taking part, visit www.soberoctober.ie
