Sober October with friends

What is Sober October?

Sober October is a 31-day commitment to go without alcohol, from October 1 to October 31. The rule is simple enough to answer at the end of each day: did you stay alcohol-free?

The harder part is following through when a normal week gets in the way. A dinner out, a stressful day or a weekend away can make a decision you made in September feel less clear in the middle of October.

Doing the challenge with friends gives that decision a shared structure. You have the same goal, the same finish date and people who understand what you’re working on. Quests gives the group a place to check in and see each other’s progress.

If you drink heavily or may be dependent on alcohol, speak with a healthcare professional before stopping. Alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous. Read the NHS guidance on alcohol support.

How do I join Sober October on Quests?

The community challenge is called Sober October. It runs for 31 days and uses a daily check-in.

1. Open the Sober October invitation. Follow the steps on the invite page to join the Quest.
2. Get the app. Quests is available on the App Store and Google Play. If you’re installing it for the first time, return to the invitation after setting up your account.
3. Invite your friends. Share this article or the Quest invitation so your group joins the same challenge.

You can also explore Quests first to see how challenges, check-ins and shared progress work.

How do I take part?

For October 1 to 31, the daily action is to stay alcohol-free. Check in on the Quest after you’ve completed the day. Keep the rule and the check-in time clear from the start.

Set a check-in time you can remember

Attach it to something you already do, such as finishing dinner or getting ready for bed. A consistent time is easier to remember than a reminder you keep moving.

Agree on what support looks like

Ask your friends how they want to be supported. Some people appreciate a message when they miss a check-in. Others prefer to bring it up themselves. Agreeing early keeps encouragement useful.

Keep checking in through the middle

The start has a clear date and the end has a finish line. The middle needs attention. If someone goes quiet, check how they’re doing. If you’re finding it difficult, tell the group what would help.

Review the month on October 31

Talk about what was easy, what was difficult and what you learned about your routine. Decide what you want to continue and whether your group wants to start another challenge.

Why do Sober October with friends?

A shared challenge makes your commitment visible. Your friends know what you’re trying to do, and you can see who is still taking part without asking everyone separately.

That is the idea behind Quests: one challenge, a shared roadmap and a daily check-in. The app gives the group a place for progress that can otherwise get buried in a conversation.

Start with people you feel comfortable being honest with. You should be able to say that a day was difficult or that you missed your goal. The point of the group is to help each other keep going.

For more on setting up a group, read how to start a challenge with friends. If you already have someone in mind, our accountability partner guide covers what to agree on before you begin.

Common questions