Dry January began with one person and has become a global phenomenon

Amanda Kuda's personal month off alcohol grew into lasting change for her, and Alcohol Change UK formalized and trademarked the Dry January challenge in 2013.

January 1 often feels like a fresh start, and many people mark it by trying a month without alcohol known as Dry January. The practice appears in both personal stories and organized programs. Amanda Kuda described stopping drinking for a month about nine years ago and later extending that change. Alcohol Change UK made Dry January an official, trademarked challenge in 2013 and offers structured support. What is known: - Amanda Kuda said she stopped drinking for a month after a heavy night about nine years ago and later continued sobriety for months and longer. - Alcohol Change UK formalized the Dry January challenge and trademarked the name in 2013, offering daily emails and online peer support. - Richard Piper, the group's CEO, reported the Dry January app has had over one million downloads. - The report cites research that abstaining from alcohol, even for moderate drinkers, is linked to improvements such as better sleep, possible weight loss, and clearer skin. Summary: Dry January has moved from individual experiments into an organized public challenge that many people try at the start of the year. The official program provides daily support and peer groups, and the wider trend has grown with substantial app uptake. Undetermined at this time.