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Study probes alcohol's effect on non-drinkers

Drinking is arguably a part of Australia’s social culture but researchers at Adelaide University are looking at the impact on those who say no.

“Alcohol has a lot of meaning in how people interact with each other so that can make it a bit challenging to step away from alcohol,” PhD student Ashlea Bartram said.

Jaklin Elliott said quitting drinking had a noticeable effect on her social life. Photo: 7 News
Jaklin Elliott said quitting drinking had a noticeable effect on her social life. Photo: 7 News

It is a feeling Jaklin Elliott knew all too well when she decided to give it up for a month.


“It was really different when we were with out friends because it's us, the non-drinkers, and them, the drinkers,” she said.

While those who decided to give up alcohol admit it’s not easy on the social front, they say thir drinking habits have changed for the better.

Researchers are now looking for more study participants. Photo: 7 News
Researchers are now looking for more study participants. Photo: 7 News

“You tend to drink a bit more on a Friday and I noticed that on a Saturday I was really ready to get up and go … whereas before it be like, “oh yeah, I’ll be up, I’ll be there,” Jaklin said.

Study participants needed

People 25 years and over who have either stopped drinking, or cut back significantly, for at least three months in the past year are invited to participate in this interview study.

Contact ashlea.bartram@adelaide.edu.au or (08) 8313 6880 for more information.