Help! What do you say when you've given up alcohol that's not just a temporary excuse?

[bettydaviseyes1]

What are your best responses for when people ask-

Why are you not drinking anymore?
You not having a drink tonight?
Awk one wont hurt.
Just have one.
You're no fun!
So you're NEVER drinking again? (Horrified/shocked face)

I wouldnt say I was addicted to alcohol, family/friends are all big drinkers so I fitted in well without appearing to drink too much. Although I am the butt of the wine jokes as they all know I like(d!!!) my wine so they'll be shocked/not believe it's going to last. They can be quite scathing of non drinkers, laugh off serious things like harm done through drinking and always pushing each other to drink or drink more. And I was there laughing and encouraging too! But lockdown had increased my drinking and made me re evaluate.

I need a response that doesnt appear holier than though/high and mighty. Also one that stops probing questions!

I have given up alcohol for physical and mental health reasons. Day 25.

I would start with a not drinking for July, or until i finish these meds. Something long enough to get over the initial questioning but specific enough that people accept it. Just don't get into the long debate.
Then once you're over the initial hump just let it continue, drive more often, have something planned for next day.
Start taking non alcoholic alternatives as part of your 'temporary' period and just never stop having them. I did a lot of sparkling water with lemon, few ice cubes - after a while no one really twigged if it was gin or water, it was just what I drank. A friend did similar with seedlip.

I have a friend who lost literally everything through alcoholism that exacerbated her mental health issues (including her husband and child). I barely drink these days. Probably have a single G&T about three times a year. I’m lucky in that most people know that I went to hell and back watching her self destruct (we provided residential care for the dd for 18 months) so I just shrug and say ‘y’know, after all that I’m not really feeling it these days.’
I should add that I’m ex military and for many years took it as a point of pride to be still going at breakfast. Last. Man. Standing.
Lightweights need not apply.
Older and wiser these days

Tell them the truth, you are not boozing because it is affecting the good health of your mind and body, or you could take an empty wine bottle that has been replaced with lime and soda, in which case you need to keep it in your sights so no mix up.
Have an energy drink diluted with sparkling water etc, and hey presto, you are the life and soul they are expecting.
Change the subject, Something Covid related.

I agree that people who are really disturbed by you not drinking are usually disturbed by their own.

My sister stopped drinking years ago. She was never all that into it and she just stopped one day. She was the same with smoking. (I always overdid everything I touched). She would just shrug and say she had stopped. Everyone got over it eventually!

Say you are on the keto/low carb diet...not allowed