I abstained for 6 months last year and it really had no effect in any way, mental or physical. Don't mean to be a contrarian, just wanted to supply a different data point
I've realized that getting even mildly drunk makes me super depressed 24-36 hours after I've stopped drinking. I don't feel physically bad, just a depressed frustrated with life and the people around me - state.
I can't do alcohol past one drink or it has very negative mood effects.
I’ve only started to notice this in the past year or so, it’s a bizarre feeling compared to just a normal hangover. Certainly dissuades me from drinking too much now.
I stopped completely because it felt better and easier on the body. Stopped eating food that always made me feel rough and life is better for it.