How to stay sober during the holidays
Holidays can be a mixed blessing for some people, especially if you’re early on in recovery. As a holiday gift, start thinking about Melodie Beattie’s idea, “Recovery is not solely about stopping the pain. Recovery is about learning to make ourselves feel better; then it’s about making ourselves feel good.”
How can you make it through the holidays not just maintaining your sobriety, but truly enjoying yourself, as well? Here is some expert advice to make that possible.
Do
- start new traditions
- practice self care
- drive yourself to parties
- enjoy yourself
Don't
- stay too long at the party
- give into peer pressure
- go to a gathering with heavy drinkers
- put yourself near known triggers
Do start new traditions
This is a fun new time in life to create bonds with sober friends that will last a lifetime. Have a sober holiday movie night; host or attend sober holiday potlucks; gather everyone for a themed get together with holiday drinks like hot peppermint chocolate and hot cider.
Do practice self care
As the holidays get closer, we are more likely to ditch our routines in the frenzy. However, this is the time to do just the opposite: double up on meetings, make calls, take time out for yourself, eat well, and sleep well. Take everything a day at a time and make sure that you are keeping track of your needs.
Do drive yourself to parties
One way to ensure your safety and sobriety is by driving yourself. You ensure that no drunk driver will be taking your life in their hands and it gives you the ability to leave the party if things are starting to become a trigger or you become uncomfortable.
Do enjoy yourself
It is safe to have fun and enjoy life while sober. This holiday season could be your most blessed and joyous one. Give yourself permission to let it be. You do not have to feel guilty for the enjoyment, just satisfaction in knowing that this year you are keeping yourself safe and sober.
Do not stay too long at the party
Keeping track of how long you have been at a party can sometimes be key. Staying too long can likely expose an individual to triggers as the party progresses later into the night. Two hours is usually a good maximum to have in mind.
Do not give into peer pressure
Your sobriety comes first. If there are holiday functions that are a part of family or friend’s traditions and they make you uncomfortable, say no. Don’t put yourself in harm’s way just to put others at ease.
Do not go to a gathering with heavy drinkers
If you surround yourself around heavy drinkers and users, then your hopes of remaining sober are in serious jeopardy. Surround yourself around people that are responsible and supportive of your sobriety decision.
Do not put yourself near known triggers
If you know the tangible triggers that make you want to use drugs or alcohol, then steer clear of them and put yourself in situations that put you at ease and make you secure and comfortable.
Summary
If you have problems staying sober or are early on in the path to recovery, stay away from triggers during the holidays and help yourself to overcome the desire to drink or take drugs by following this simple advice. It is ok to still enjoy yourself and remain engaged in social activity, but just be careful to monitor your behavior especially closely during this season.
