Sam O'Brien West, 32, always knew he was a problem drinker, often the drunkest person in the room at social events. He started drinking at 14 and, throughout his 20s, would drink to a point of not being in control. Watching football made things worse: 'I had an excuse to spend all day in the pub where people were egging each other on to drink more.' The excitement was paired with anxiety that he would 'write himself off for a couple of days after matches.' Three years ago, after failing to wake up in time for work following a drinking session, he decided to stop.
Now an ambassador for Alcohol Change UK, the charity behind Dry January, he is preparing for his first alcohol-free World Cup. Experts warn that a combination of alcohol, late nights, snacking and stress can all take their toll on the body during the tournament. O'Brien West offers five tips for staying off the booze:
“Football fan Sam O'Brien West, 32, shares his five tips for an alcohol-free World Cup after quitting drinking three years ago.”
First, plan ahead if watching with others. Surround yourself with people you are comfortable with to avoid awkwardness that might lead to reaching for beer. Second, top up your energy and social battery with a good night's sleep, and try exercise with good tunes a few hours before the game to build a natural buzz. Third, tell people in advance you are not drinking, especially if it is new or you feel apprehensive. 'You'll feel more comfortable knowing some of your mates are already on your side.' If asked, he is open about his reasons – apart from being a problem, alcohol made his anxiety and depression worse. But if you prefer not to explain, simply say you want to challenge yourself to an alcohol-free World Cup.
O'Brien West still loves watching football in the pub. 'A pub can take the pressure off social interaction because everyone's attention is on the game. Other people are going to be a bit merry and you can almost convince yourself you're on that same high.' He has been lucky not to experience challenges to his sobriety, but advises: 'Be firm – you don't owe an explanation to anyone, and it should be enough to just say no.'