Javonnia Kelly, LPC/S

Alcohol consumption is undergoing a major shift in the United States. As evidence mounts showing even moderate alcohol intake has negative effects on overall health, Americans are choosing to take better care of themselves and drink less or stop drinking altogether. Societal pressure to drink is also decreasing.

In the 90-year history of Gallup Polls, from 1939-2022, the percentage of Americans who reported using alcohol fluctuated between 60-71%. Between 2022 and 2025, the rate dropped from 67% to 54%, the lowest rate recorded in Gallup Poll history. Younger Americans under age 35 led the charge, demonstrating a significant “sober-curious” shift among young adults, who are drinking less frequently. This group showed a 10% drop in alcohol consumption – 60% to 50% – from 2023 to 2025.

The “sober-curious” movement is defined by a cultural shift toward mindful drinking. While some are choosing abstinence outright, others are focusing on drinking less, enjoying non-alcoholic beverages, promoting alcohol-free socialization, or pausing for periods like Dry January or Sober October.

According to Gallup, this trend is driven by health concerns, with 53% of adults viewing moderate drinking as unhealthy. The numbers don’t lie; research continues to show that even one to two drinks per day, including wine, beer, and liquor, comes with health risks. Additionally, long-term use of alcohol changes, inflames, and shrinks the brain, can destroy brain cells, negatively affects memory, planning, and decision making, and increases the risk or severity of depression and anxiety. Some people report negative personality changes when drinking.

Regular alcohol use also suppresses the immune system and increases your risk of high blood pressure, liver disease, and different types of cancer. Alcohol can also interact with other drugs, such as benzodiazepines, and may increase your risk of psychosis and dementia.

A decrease in sales of beer, wine, and liquor has accompanied this movement, alongside a surge in sales of low- or no-alcohol beer and wine. Mocktails have also become a popular trend. These non-alcoholic beverages are designed to replicate the flavors and presentation of a traditional cocktail. Mixology techniques and ingredients such as fresh fruit, herbs, botanicals, syrups, and sparkling water make these ideal for socializing without alcohol. Mocktails can help people feel engaged socially, be part of the group, or keep friends safe as the designated driver!

Below is a fun mocktail recipe to try:

Berry Sparkler Mocktail

½ cup fresh mixed berries (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, or strawberries)

1 Tbsp. lime juice

1 cup plain or berry-flavored sparkling water or club soda

3-4 fresh mint leaves

Ice cubes

In a tall class, muddle the fresh berries and mint leaves together until the berries are mostly crushed. Add the lime juice and fill the glass with ice cubes. Pour in the sparkling water or club soda and stir gently. Garnish with a lime slice or extra mint.

These drinks are not recommended for people in recovery from alcohol use disorder, especially in the early stages, as they can trigger stronger urges for alcohol.

For the 54% of Americans who do consume alcohol, it’s crucial to keep an eye on intake, patterns, and the effects it has on your life. While less or no drinking is the best choice, health care providers typically suggest limiting alcohol to no more than one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men. However, having alcohol free-days does not mean you can add more drinks to other days!

While alcohol intake is decreasing nationwide, and many people are quitting alcohol and reaching for alternative drink options, it is a challenge for some individuals to drink less or quit altogether. If you or a loved one is dealing with alcohol-related issues, the HopeHealth Substance Use Disorder treatment program at the Medical Plaza in Florence, SC, is available. Call (843) 432-3690 or visit hope-health.org to learn more.