GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — For people considering quitting or cutting back their alcohol use in the New Year, Rural Recovery and CHP Berkshires are hosting a Jan. 3 hybrid event, "Sober Curious: A Conversation for the New Year." 

 

The talk takes place at 7 p.m., at the South County Recovery Center, 67 State Road, Great Barrington, and and online via Zoom. Prior registration is required here.

 

CHP Berkshires Family Nurse Practitioner TC Clarke and Rural Recovery Program Director Gary Pratt will co-host the talk.

 

Pratt said the event will be informational and nonjudgmental for anyone who'd like to curtail drinking for a while or forever. 

 

"Alcohol is so common and socially acceptable that people may not be aware they've developed a dependency until they try to cut back," he said. 

 

Pratt will discuss Rural Recovery's various free programs and support services to help people make changes. 

 

"Alcohol can have an impact on overall wellness over time, even moderate use," said TC Clarke, FNP at Lee Family Practice, who has a special interest in working with people with addiction issues. "Heavier use also raises health risks, but either way, changing habits can be a challenge and there are tools and support to help." 

 

Clarke will discuss some of the medical impacts of consistent alcohol use and share other medical information of interest. 

 

Any questions about the program can be directed to Rural Recovery, at (413) 645-3564.