A growing number of people are deciding to pursue relationships without alcohol or other substances. This is known as dry dating.
For anyone in addiction recovery or those exploring a sober lifestyle, dry dating can give you a refreshing alternative to traditional dating culture that revolves around going for drinks. [1]
This blog will explore what exactly dry dating is, where it comes from, and what the benefits are.
Dry dating in practice is when you date without consuming any alcohol or drugs during dates.
Unlike conventional dating practices, largely focused on bars, parties, or other drinking occasions, dry dating prioritises social interactions where you are completely sober.
The goal of dry dating is to develop meaningful connections and enjoy activities without being under the influence of substances.
Dry dating doesn’t have to be confined to people in recovery, anyone can give this mindful approach to dating a go. It offers the chance to get to know someone intimately and connect on a deeper level. [2]
The idea of dry dating can be linked to the increasingly sober-curious movements that look to protect physical health and mental wellbeing.
Trends like “Sober October” or “Dry January” have aided the normalisation that choosing not to drink can be empowering instead of embarrassing or isolating.
Historically, sobriety-based dating was largely linked to mutual support among people in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, such as those who are participating in Alcoholics Anonymous or other 12-Step programmes.
However, now dry dating has broadened beyond recovery groups, with websites and dating apps having sober-friendly filters.
Dry dating also comes at a time where there is a noticeable shift in modern dating culture, with younger generations prioritising health, mindfulness, and genuine, authentic connection.
Instead, there is a growing recognition that alcohol doesn’t have to be central to socialising or developing romantic relationships. [3]
Many studies in psychology and addiction suggest that reducing alcohol or substance use in social situations can have multiple benefits, which transfer to the context of dating.
Below are some benefits of dry dating:
Alcohol can result in impaired cognitive functions and emotional clarity. On the other hand, dry dating offers the chance for open and honest conversations.
If both individuals are sober, this greatly reduces the risk of any misunderstanding, strengthening the start and foundations of a relationship.
For anyone in recovery or with addictive behavioural tendencies, avoiding substances like alcohol or drugs during dating can prevent relapse and reinforce your sobriety goals.
It also gives you the chance to establish being honest about your sobriety journey from the outset of your dating life and ensure dating doesn’t interfere with your addiction recovery.
Substances such as alcohol can impair your judgement, which can lead to poor decision-making, the inability to set personal boundaries, or issues around giving consent.
Dry dating can encourage mindful decision-making and ensure both people starting the relationship can make conscious choices about their relationship and interactions.
Avoiding alcohol while dating can help with better physical health and result in better sleep, higher energy levels, and a reduced risk of alcohol-related illnesses and diseases.
Better health can also positively affect your mood, confidence, and general dating experience.
If you’re thinking about dry dating, here are some tips to make your dry dating experience more enjoyable:
It’s normal to date people who prefer traditional dating that involves alcohol. If you start dating someone who prefers traditional dating that involves alcohol, it’s important to stick to your boundaries and communicate them clearly.
You should ensure that you prioritise your needs, but also respect your differences.
It’s okay to be honest with yourself, though. If dating someone who is drinking is too much of a trigger, it’s important to have an open conversation with them to explain how you’re feeling.
[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9523758/
Boris is our editor-in-chief at Rehab 4 Addiction. Boris is an addiction expert with more than 20 years in the field. His expertise covers a broad of topics relating to addiction, rehab and recovery. Boris is an addiction therapist and assists in the alcohol detox and rehab process. Boris has been featured on a variety of websites, including the BBC, Verywell Mind and Healthline. You can connect with Boris online at LinkedIn or X.com.
