Millie’s Sober Spring hacks - Week thirteen

TV programmes focusing on sobriety can be powerful tools for those looking to cut down or quit drinking as they often explore the challenges and triumphs, providing valuable insights and inspiration. Here’s a few of my favourite if you’re looking to swap binge drinking for binge watching!

"The Dry" on ITV is a must-watch. It’s about a young woman, Shiv Sheridan, who comes back to Dublin after getting sober. The series really digs into her struggle to rebuild her life while dealing with family drama, old friends, and all the temptations that come her way. The writing is sharp, and it blends humour with heartache, making the characters and situations feel so real. It’s a perfect pick if you love stories about personal transformation.

Even though "The Queen's Gambit" is mainly about chess, it’s got a lot going on with themes of addiction and sobriety too. Beth Harmon, the main character, deals with substance use as she climbs to the top of the chess world. The show beautifully shows the mix of her genius and her struggles with alcohol and tranquilizers. It’s a deep and moving look at how passions and demons can coexist, making it a gripping story about overcoming personal battles.

"Loudermilk" is a dark comedy that’s both hilarious and insightful. It follows Sam Loudermilk, a former music critic with alcohol use disorder, who’s now a substance abuse counsellor. His blunt and sarcastic style is just part of his charm as he helps others while trying to stay sober himself. The show’s sharp wit and honest portrayal of recovery make it stand out, tackling the realities of sobriety with plenty of heart and humour.