Bring your own or select a festive nonalcoholic option and have an exit or even escape strategy if you start to feel anxious. Make sure you have your own transportation so that you can leave quickly if you feel uncomfortable. Call sober holidays your sponsor before the party and walk through the plan. And, bring the address of the nearest AA meeting, just in case. Having a plan will help you stay focused on your desired outcome – staying sober during the holidays.
How to Get Help After Relapse
Proper nutrition, gentle exercise and restorative sleep can do wonders for your well-being. The better you feel physically, the stronger you will be emotionally. Nourish your spirit, too, through personal reflection and connection https://ecosoberhouse.com/ with those you love. Find some quiet time each day for relaxation and meditation—if only for a few minutes, no matter how busy you are. At family gatherings and social events, tote around your favorite non-alcoholic drink.
Avoid Triggering Situations
The holidays can be an incredibly stressful time for anyone, especially those struggling with a substance use disorder or mental health condition. While the New Year is a popular time to make a change for the better, waiting to get the help you need is never the best option. To get started on your recovery journey, contact a treatment provider to learn more about your options. All of us need connection and support in our recovery; especially during the holidays.
Graduate School of Addiction Studies
Navigating social situations during the holiday season can be challenging, especially when there is pressure to use alcohol as a social lubricant. However, it is important to remember that staying sober during this time of year is possible. One way to manage these situations is by practicing assertiveness in declining alcohol offers. By confidently and politely saying no, you can assert your commitment to your sobriety goals.
Why Is It Hard to Stay Sober Over the Holidays?
Alive Sober Living
- You might also want to prepare a script so that you know what you’d like to say when you’re offered something you’re committed to abstaining from.
- Instead, be honest about your triggers and your ability to handle them.
- However, for people in recovery, it can remind them of all the negative things that happened in the past year.
- “Anything we put in front of our recovery will lose,” Rollins said.
- This can take a toll on our physical and emotional well-being.
- The first to find all the items and turn them in wins a fun prize.
- If you are on a trip, and you want to start a meeting, you are free to do so.
- Keeping your daily routine on track will help you stay focused on recovery.
- These refreshing beverages are perfect for enjoying with friends and family during holiday events.
- Ask everyone to contribute some candy to the kitty and provide additional snacks for guests to enjoy.