Thinking of giving up alcohol? Here are 7 questions to ask yourself first.

Thanks to our brand partner, POSCA HYDRATE

I don't know about you, but it seems like almost everyone I know is talking about taking a break from booze lately.

As for me, after finding out I was pregnant at the beginning of the year, it was a no-brainer. But what I noticed after giving up alcohol genuinely surprised me. I really didn't miss it. When I recently welcomed my baby, sushi and soft cheeses were the things I craved and reached for. Alcohol? Not so much.

For those around me, maybe it's after a big birthday, a hectic social season, or just that feeling that a glass of wine after dinner has become less "treat" and more routine. If you've found yourself quietly rethinking your relationship with alcohol, you're absolutely not alone.

In fact, there's a real wave of curiosity and self-reflection rippling through our feeds — especially among women in their late twenties, thirties, and forties. We're collectively asking: "How do I want to feel day-to-day? What do I actually want out of my weekends? Could less alcohol mean more energy, better sleep, or just a clearer headspace?"

Before anyone rushes into declarations of being "sober forever" or, on the flip side, dismisses the idea entirely, here's what could help you the most: ask yourself a few honest questions. No judgement. No pressure. Just a bit of gentle curiosity about what works (and what doesn't) for your lifestyle right now.

Below are seven questions you might want to ask yourself before making any changes to your drinking habits — along with some real-life insights and manageable ways to reflect on what fits your own version of balance.

1. Why do you usually reach for a drink?

Is it a celebration, stress relief, habit, or just the easiest way to socialise? Try jotting down a few notes on your phone (just for yourself) about your drinking habits. Noticing when and why you're drinking — without self-blame — can be one of the most insightful starting points. Do this for a fortnight and see what patterns you notice.

2. How does drinking affect your sleep and energy?

If you've ever woken up after "just a couple of glasses" feeling as if you barely slept, you're not imagining it. Even small amounts of alcohol can disrupt sleep cycles, leaving us groggy the next day, research shows. For me, not drinking made me feel like I had more energy, even in the depths of pregnancy, which is saying something. If you want to experiment, pick one week to compare alcohol nights with alcohol-free ones and note down how you feel in the mornings. You might be surprised by the difference.

3. What alternatives would you actually find satisfying?

Let's be honest, water is wonderful — but sometimes, I want something a bit more satisfying in my glass. In the Mamamia office, we're lucky enough to have our fridge fully stocked with tasty options like Posca Hydrate — a sparkling, sugar-free drink inspired by ancient Roman recipes but remixed for modern life. Packed with electrolytes and prebiotics for gut health, Posca skips the sugar and stimulants, so I stay hydrated and refreshed without the crash or guilt I used to get from soft drinks or traditional mixers. The best bit? It genuinely has a great balance of salty, sweet and sour flavours, almost like you're drinking a sparkling cocktail. It's definitely a satisfying alternative to enjoy any time — whether you're at a party, post-workout or winding down at home.

4. Are you drinking out of true enjoyment or just habit?

Have you ever polished off a drink simply because everyone else was — not because you really wanted it? Try asking yourself: "Do I even want this right now, or am I just on autopilot?" If you're not sure, give yourself permission to pause before refilling your glass. Sometimes, a moment to think is all it takes to notice what your body (and mind) actually wants.

5. How do you feel physically and mentally after drinking?

It's easy to skim past hangover symptoms — not just the headaches, but the low mood, brain fog, and lack of motivation that sometimes lingers for days. Try tracking not just the big nights out, but the "innocent" couple of drinks after dinner. If you spot a pattern of feeling sub-par, it might be worth considering whether those drinks are actually adding value to your week, or secretly draining your energy.

6. What are your triggers or social influences?

For lots of us, drinking isn't just personal — it's social. Birthday party? Champagne. Date night? Wine bar. You might find it useful to map out the situations where you felt most tempted (or pressured) to drink. Asking, "Would I still have a good time with a non-alc option?" might help you suss out what's really about connection versus just keeping up appearances. Try bringing your own alcohol-free drink (like Posca or even soda with lime) to the next event and see how you feel — often, no one even notices the swap.

7. What kind of support would help you most?

Changing habits can be a bit confronting. You might find chatting to a friend (or trawling helpful communities online) helpful. Whether it's following hashtags like #mindfuldrinking, joining a 30-day challenge, or even seeing a health professional for tailored advice, having support can make experimentation feel less lonely — and more achievable.

Ultimately, the point of asking these questions isn't to judge yourself or anyone else. For me (and so many other Aussie women right now), it's about being a bit kinder to myself and giving my body the best shot at feeling energised and content. If you try swapping a glass of wine for a sparkling zero-alcohol option or simply taking a weeknight off, you might notice a subtle but seriously positive difference.

Whatever decision you make, remember it's yours to own. Here's to feeling good, one question at a time.

How did you decide to give up alcohol? Tell us in the comments section below.

Grab Posca Hydrate from Amazon.

If this article brought up concerns about your drinking, you can call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015 for free, confidential advice.

Featured image: Getty.

Ancient wisdom, remixed for the battles of modern life.
A 2,000-year-old recipe, reimagined as a sparkling functional drink, Posca is your hydrating, energising, gut-loving, zero sugar health elixir, with flavour that hits.
Bold flavour. Big benefits. No regrets. Posca Hydrate is wellness that actually tastes good.