Voices of Temporary Sobriety - A Diary Study of an Alcohol-Free Month in Hungary.

: Temporary abstinence from alcohol as a challenge could support self-knowledge, self-care, and health consciousness in several ways. : The present study explored participants' personal experiences and coping strategies during a one-month abstinence period. The research is embedded in the Hungarian context of drinking habits, culture, society, and alcohol policy. : This qualitative study comprised the thematic analysis of 23 participants' diaries, reported twice a week for 30 days (in November 2017), to identify and understand the common experiences of temporary sobriety. : Three main themes emerged from the analysis: and . Results showed that there are no categorical differences between successful and non-successful participants. : The present research demonstrated that during the challenge, rather than simply saying 'no' to alcohol, participants utilized other refusal strategies to avoid social confrontation.