Written by Sarah Montes, Addiction Counsellor
Sarah Montes is a Lived Experience Addiction Counselor with a rich background in addiction recovery, having transformed her own challenges into a career dedicated to helping others heal and find purpose.
Five and a half years ago, I made the decision to embrace sobriety, a choice that has profoundly transformed my life. What began as a personal commitment to breaking free from addiction has evolved into a larger realization: sobriety is not just about avoiding alcohol; it is about reclaiming control, improving mental and physical health, and fostering meaningful connections. Today, I see more people questioning alcohol’s role in their lives, and the sober movement is gaining momentum across Canada and beyond.
Changing attitudes toward alcohol
According to recent data from Statistics Canada (2024), 67% of individuals aged 18 to 22 reported not consuming alcohol in the past week, compared to 54% of the general Canadian population. Additionally, 25% of young adults aged 18 to 34 abstained from alcohol in the previous month—an increase from 17% in 2018. These numbers reflect what I have personally experienced: more people are recognizing that life without alcohol can be more fulfilling, not less.
The rise of non-alcoholic beverages
One of the most exciting aspects of this shift is the increasing availability of non-alcoholic options. The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) reported a 73% increase in non-alcoholic beverage sales from 2023 to 2024 (CTV News, 2024). This means that individuals who choose sobriety—whether temporarily or permanently—no longer have to feel left out at social gatherings. I have found that embracing these alternatives has helped me enjoy events without compromising my values or well-being.
The life-changing benefits of sobriety
Choosing sobriety has given me a renewed sense of clarity, energy, and purpose. I have experienced improved mental health, better sleep, stronger relationships, and greater financial freedom. A 2023 Ipsos survey found that 20% of Canadians avoid alcohol to prioritize their well-being (Ipsos, 2023), and I can attest to the profound impact it has had on mine. Sobriety is not a limitation; it is a doorway to a richer, more authentic life.
The future of the sober movement
As societal norms continue to evolve, the sober movement is expected to grow. More alcohol-free events, social spaces, and online communities are providing support and encouragement for those on this journey. What was once a difficult and isolating decision is now becoming a celebrated lifestyle choice. For me, sobriety has not only been about giving something up but about gaining so much more.
The shift toward sobriety is more than just a trend; it is a powerful movement redefining what it means to live fully. If my journey can inspire even one person to consider the benefits of an alcohol-free life, then sharing my story has been worth it.
Read more from Sarah Montes
Sarah Montes, Addiction Counsellor
Sarah Montes, founder and CEO of Sarah Montes Recovery Services, is a Lived Experience Addiction Counselor with a profound understanding of the complexities of addiction and recovery. Having overcome personal struggles, she has held pivotal roles in withdrawal management and residential treatment centers. Her work, infused with deep empathy and unwavering commitment, extends beyond her practice to other clinics and treatment centres, where she supports individuals, families, and communities on their journeys to healing.
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