It’s difficult. So many people seem to find it challenging to be around someone who has stopped drinking. I believe that for the most part it’s because they aren’t entirely comfortable with how much they themselves drink.

Over the past few years I’ve gone from explaining that I’m: - just taking a break - focussing on my fitness - find it harder to recover now I’m getting older - not good at moderation so easier not to drink at all

Non of it seems to lead to a quick shut down if the conversation.

If I’m feeling particularly intolerant I’ll just tell them that I do t want to drink myself to death like my mother did but that’s generally too personal and confronting so I rarely mention it.

But to your point yes, it’s difficult. People aren’t understanding - especially in the U.K. where the drinking culture is so pervasive.