“Alcohol Is the Only Drug You Have to Justify Not Taking” – Millie Gooch on Hangxiety, Britain's Drinking Culture and Finding Confidence Sober

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Wednesday, 21 October 2026 - 55 minutes

This week, Claira is joined by Millie Gooch, founder of Sober Girl Society, to talk mental health, drinking culture and learning to enjoy life without alcohol.Millie shares how she went from struggling with binge drinking to completely giving up alcohol in 2018. She opens up about how she used alcohol to feel more confident in social situations, the cycle of drinking to escape difficult feelings and why becoming sober has been one of the biggest changes she's made for her mental wellbeing. Millie tells us about why she founded Sober Girl Society; a community helping women to  connect, socialise and build friendships without alcohol. She shares her tips for navigating sober nights out, dating and social pressure and explains why giving up drinking doesn't mean giving up fun.Guest: Millie GoochYou can find Millie and Sober Girl Society on Instagram, and find out more about the community and upcoming events at sobergirlssociety.com.Millie’s new book ‘Hangxiety: How Alcohol Messes with Your Mind’ is out now. Producer: Monica Lillis

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