What are Go Sober for October and Stoptober and how do I get involved?
Find out more about the two health campaigns and how you can sign up
Stoptober 2018 is here and people are being encouraged to give up alcohol and/or smoking for a month.
Go Sober for October is an annual campaign which asks people to pledge to go booze-free in order to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support and become a 'Soberhero', while the NHS's Stoptober asks smokers to give up the habit for a month.
What is Go Sober For October?
Macmillan is hoping that people will give up alcohol for the 31 days of October and raise a glass of water instead of their favourite booze in an effort to support the charity with their work supporting those with cancer.
Fundraising will help Macmillan nurses, physiotherapists, dietitians and other professionals to offer support to those with cancer and improve their lives.
On the website, £100 is described as being used for their phone service, and £1010 can pay a Macmillan nurse for a week.
What is Stoptober?
The NHS launched Stoptober in 2012 and it is now part of the One You campaign, which aims to help adults make small changes to their lifestyle which will improve their overall health.
It is based on the idea that quitting smoking for 28 days means you are five times more likely to be able to quit for good.
E-cigarettes are being recommended by the NHS as a way to combat nicotine cravings, as they are described on the as carrying a fraction of the risk of traditional cigarettes.
How can I get involved?
To sign up for Macmillan Stoptober for alcohol, to become a Soberhero.
On the Go Sober website, it says: “Be a Soberhero and go 31 days without alcohol this October – say no to the booze and yes to raising money for people living with cancer.
“And just like every hero’s trusty sidekick, Macmillan will be with you every step of the way to help you along your sober journey.
“By signing up to the challenge you’re doing something amazing for people with cancer.
MOST READ IN HEALTH AND FITNESS
“All the money raised by those Going Sober this October will help Macmillan support even more people facing cancer.
“So thank you for taking part in Go Sober, raising a glass (of water) and standing proudly beside people facing cancer.”
So far the website says 32,775 people have signed up, and £350,327 has already been raised.
Those wanting to be part of the NHS Stoptober for smoking can check out the to download the app, get email support and chat with the service on Facebook messenger.