Love Island’s Dr Alex opens up on his decision to go sober

Sarah McKenna Barry

“I love being able to experience all of the colour in life, in full HD.”

Former Love Island star and mental health advocate Dr Alex George has shared his decision to give up drinking alcohol.

Taking to Instagram, Alex outlined his decision, and spoke about how there is a “societal assumption that if someone has gone sober then they must have a serious ‘problem’ or be at ‘rock bottom’.”

Alex explained that he drinks “a couple of times a week”, and while he has good “control” over his consumption, he has recently been questioning why he drinks.

“I have become sober curious,” he wrote. “Alcohol is a terrible mix with ADHD, has no real benefits to our physical and mental health, and yet I drink regularly. I have started to question why? Like with any relationship, it’s good to understand how it’s serving us and whether the reasons we signed up to it are even still relevant or helpful. Or even whether the dynamic has changed.”

He explained that he has made most of his mistakes while drinking, and this reflection led him to make the decision to give up drinking.

“I love life,” he said. “I love being out at the crack of dawn, Rolo at my side. I love being able to experience all of the colour in life, in full HD. Alcohol turns down the frequency, distorts the colours and muffles the noise. Have I enjoyed times having a drink? Of course. But the cost, especially as I go into my thirties, is it too dear?”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CmGZgJ8tDnG/

Alex wrote about how there is a societal expectation to drink, and how he has concerns about this attitude, as well as the drinks industry. He then shared that he isn’t sure if he will be sober forever, or for a period of time.

“What I do know is that the step back will only do me good,” he said. “I want to feel the grief over my brother, process loved ones leaving my life, and see life with clarity and colour, knowing that I can give 100% of the things I care for and enjoy. I want to know sober Alex and what sober Alex wants from life.”

He also extended his thanks to those who have supported him so far.

“Your support through this will never be forgotten. I appreciate you having my back. I will be open and vulnerable with you for as long as I have a voice to do it.”

He signed off by sharing that he’ll be keeping his followers updated, and encouraged them to share tips on sobriety.

“Please do share any tups and advice you have, especially on dancing sober (lol).”