16.01.2025 - Alcohol consumption is often seen as a normal part of life, while refusing alcohol is perceived as unusual. Social media influencer Arttu Ylitalo highlights that among young adults, there is a common assumption that alcohol will be consumed whenever people go out. "Our whole society is marinated in alcohol; it’s everywhere, even in movies and TV shows. I try to show that life can be enjoyable without it."
The social pressure associated with alcohol use can be seen in how declining a drink often feels like making a statement, Ylitalo notes. Refusing alcohol draws attention, even when that’s not the intent.
“I get comments on social media asking if I’m trying to be a better person by not drinking. But those comments reveal more about the commenter’s relationship with alcohol than about me. If someone feels strongly about another person’s sobriety, it might be worth reflecting on their own relationship with alcohol. It’s helpful to pause and ask, ‘Why am I feeling this way?’”
Ylitalo’s journey started with a Dry January. A few years ago, he decided to try an alcohol-free month and then continued reducing his consumption afterward.
“I realized that being sober gave me the best feeling I’d had in a long time. At first, I thought I might still drink occasionally at parties, but then I realized my drinking days were over.”
He adds that being sober makes it easier to be present in social situations and live in the moment. Ylitalo says that other people’s drinking doesn’t bother him, and he encourages those curious about their own relationship with alcohol to pause and experiment—whether by trying Dry January, attending a party sober, or reducing alcohol use with alcohol-free options.
Refusing alcohol can sometimes prompt questions about health or other possible reasons for not drinking. Ylitalo emphasizes that no one owes anyone an explanation. Simply saying, “I’m not drinking today,” is enough.
“Explaining yourself isn’t necessary. You don’t need to soften your stance to appease others. It’s no one else’s business why or how long you choose not to drink.”
Self-awareness and valuing personal boundaries can help if a social situation feels awkward.
“It’s important to know yourself and trust your decisions. If I decide not to drink, then I don’t.”
Arttu Ylitalo is actively encouraging people to try Dry January. He has noticed that one of the main arguments against Dry January is the belief that only people with alcohol problems participate.
“Because of this misconception, I didn’t try Dry January myself for a long time. I thought it could even be dangerous, fearing that alcohol use might spiral out of control afterward. Now I wonder: what if I had tried it earlier? Would life have been different? I’m living proof that Dry January can lead to lifelong changes.”
According to a survey commissioned by EHYT, 54% of those who participated in Dry January continued it into February. Additionally, 11% reported drinking less alcohol after Dry January than they did before. The survey results show no indication that people who participated in Dry January drank more alcohol afterward.
The survey data was collected via telephone interviews from February 5–16, 2024. The respondents represent Finland’s population aged 18 and older, excluding residents of Åland. A total of 1,006 interviews were conducted.