NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — As of 2022, more than 29 million people in the United States ages 12 and up had alcohol use disorder (AUD), according to the Pew Research Center. Sober October offers a chance for people struggling with alcohol use, and for those who think they don't consume a lot of it, to see if they can go a month without it. Abstaining from alcohol during Sober October — or any month, for that matter — offers many health benefits, such as improved quality of sleep, memory, immune function, and a reduced risk of cancer. Dr. Joseph R. Volpicelli, Executive Director of the Institute of Addiction Medicine, gave us a list of these and other benefits of participating in Sober October. They include: Better control of your blood pressure and blood sugar Reduced heartburn Improved liver functioning Less risk of falling and bone fractures Less dehydration and improved skin health Less risk of car accidents as you're more alert Feeling less hungover after drinking, which improves energy and lessens feelings of anxiety More time to enjoy recreational activities Improved relationships with others Update on a Bismarck girl battling cancer “Each person may experience their own unique benefits of quitting or cutting back on alcohol. The idea of an alcohol-free month like Dry January, gives you a chance to experience life without alcohol and one can keep track of how they feel without alcohol," Dr. Volpicelli said. "For many this experience is very helpful to see how much better they feel free of alcohol. Many of the harmful effects from alcohol can be so gradual that one does not recognize the cost of drinking. A dry period brings these costs into a sharp focus.” If you find yourself struggling to complete an alcohol-free month like Sober October, Dr. Volpicelli advises you to think about your relationship with alcohol. He says you should consider talking to a medical professional about combining medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with psychosocial therapy to reduce your heavy drinking days or stop drinking altogether. For those struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (NDHHS) has many resources available to help. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW