Going Sober During the Holiday Season: A Guide to Success

Finally, the season for families and friends to come together is here. People are eager to hold parties, family dinners, and socialize with their loved ones after a long and challenging year. Along with this season comes different holidays from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. Part of the fun include many social activities. Such activities might include consuming alcohol and other drugs. But the use of drugs and alcohol poses a challenge, especially to those on their road to recovery from alcohol or drug addiction.

The path to recovery is not an easy one and is one of the roughest and hardest. The onset of the holidays signals a reconnection with old friends and family and most of the time there are activities involved like drinking or using drugs. In case, these activities might be potential triggers that might interfere with being sober, it can be quite challenging. Below are tips on how to go sober and get through the holiday feeling cheerful.

Take note of the triggers

Whenever you are attending holiday parties, you need to be sure that you can control yourself. Being and staying sober requires that you be accountable. If possible, take a sober companion with you when attending such functions. They will help support you and pay close attention to you, enabling you to avoid any potential triggers. Click here to get some tips and coaching on how to cut back on drinking from a professional.

Make wise choices

Carefully choose the events you’ll be attending and when you do attend, plan to leave early. Going with someone who supports you is one wise choice since the person can give me a nudge in case you behave in a way that was of concern or had the opportunity to become a trigger. If you can’t find a companion to take along, then leave early.

Connect with the right circle

People will definitely drink during the holiday season as part of having a good time making it a dangerous time for those trying to get sober. Find friends who will lift you up and hold your hand on your journey to sobriety. The friend can be your best friend, a family member, your neighbor, your coworker. Even if they are not present physically, stay connected during holiday time.

Engage in activities with no drugs or alcohol

Make a list of all the activities you’ll be engaging in. They should be non-drinking activities that have nothing to do with drugs or alcohol. Instead try participating in things that you like, hang with like-minded people and focus on the joy of having a wonderful time on your holiday.

Incorporate Self-Care

As you celebrate the holiday remember to take care of your body and mental health. Treat yourself to some “me time” by going for exercises like running or attending yoga classes and engaging in treatments like a night out, meditation or going for body treatment like a massage session.

Above all, eat well and avoid overstuffing yourself with too many unhealthy foods and drinks like sugar, carbs, and fat-laden foods. Proper nutrition and exercise will enhance your physical movement making you feel stronger, physically, emotionally and mentally.