Sober October: A Month to Encourage Healthy Habits

Sober October is a growing movement that encourages people to take a break from alcohol and reflect on their relationship with drinking. For parents and caregivers, it’s a valuable opportunity to help the young people in your life understand the importance of making healthy choices when it comes to alcohol and other substances.

Why Sober October Matters for Families

For many young people, having conversations about alcohol can be challenging. Sober October offers a framework to discuss these topics in a way that feels supportive rather than restrictive.

Whether by participating yourself or sharing the goals of the campaign with others, you can model responsible behavior and show the importance of considering the impact alcohol has on health and well-being.

Talk to Your Kids about Alcohol

One of the key goals of Sober October is to create a space for open dialogue. Here are some tips for having these conversations with young people:

Start with curiosity, not judgment: Ask your children what they think about alcohol and if they’ve seen their peers drink. This opens the door for honest conversations.

Share your experiences: Let them know about times you’ve avoided alcohol and why you did so—or how you’ve seen it affect others.

Focus on health, not fear: Discuss the physical, mental, and emotional effects of drinking alcohol. Frame it around helping them make informed choices rather than focusing solely on negative consequences, which can be scary and unhelpful.

For more guidance, check out our podcast and blog about having these conversations with your kids.

Find Tools for Educating Young People

As part of our Sober October campaign this year, we’re offering a social media toolkit to help you share this important information with your network. The toolkit includes:

• Sample messages for social media, making it easier to talk about the benefits of reducing or avoiding alcohol and other substances.
• Tips for encouraging your community to get involved in the movement.
• Graphics that can be shared in schools, community centers, and online to spread the word.

By using these resources, you can help build awareness throughout your entire community. Empowering young people to pause and reflect on their choices around alcohol is one of the most valuable ways you can contribute to their long-term well-being.

Schools and Communities Can Help, Too

Schools and community organizations also play a key role in supporting Sober October. Educators and prevention professionals can use this month to host discussions, share resources, and create alcohol-free events. The more that young people hear these messages at home, in school, and in their community, the more likely they are to make healthier choices.

Join the Sober October Movement

You don’t have to be a parent or caregiver to make a difference during Sober October. Whether you’re a teacher, coach, or someone else who regularly interacts with young people, your actions set a powerful example. By participating in Sober October, you’re helping to model responsible behavior and show young people that fun, connection, and wellness don’t require alcohol. Together, we can lead by example and encourage healthier choices for the next generation.