Sober Tips for the Holidays
The holidays are meant to be a time of merriment and celebration. But, if you’re recovering from addiction or substance abuse, your celebrations might look a bit different this year.
It’s not uncommon for holiday get-togethers, family gatherings, and even work parties to include alcoholic beverages. No matter how “festive” they might be, the exposure can be triggering if you’re trying to move forward into the next chapter of your sober lifestyle.
So, what can you do to enjoy the holiday season without succumbing to old habits or giving in to temptation? How can you cope while still being able to attend different celebrations? Let’s cover a few sober tips that will make a big difference.
Plan Ahead
Sobriety needs to be your top priority throughout the holidays. So, plan ahead for every event you want to attend. Get as much information ahead of time as possible, so you can create a healthy and effective “strategy” for yourself.
In some cases, that might include bringing an accountability partner with you. Other times, you might rely on celebrating in others ways. Enjoy a favorite dessert or dish you don’t often get to eat the rest of the year. Dance, talk with old friends, and swap stories. Think about ways you can enjoy yourself that don’t involve drinking.
One helpful strategy, while you’re at a party, is to carry around a “prop”. The last thing you’ll want to deal with is people asking you why you’re not drinking. Grab a soda or a mocktail and keep it in your hand throughout the event to avoid those conversation triggers.
Some of your plans can even include not attending every event. If you know that you’ll be triggered at specific get-togethers, your best option might simply be to avoid them. It’s your choice, and saying “no” to certain events because you know they’re not good for your sobriety is truly taking charge of your health and well-being.
You can also drive yourself. Whether it be a work event or family gathering, taking your own car gives you the freedom to exit for your sobriety and sanity on your terms. If you have strong cravings at the holiday event, it can be challenging to ask your ride to leave early, especially if they're enjoying themselves.
Develop New Traditions
The holidays are all about traditions. Unfortunately, some of your traditions in the past could have revolved around drinking.
Why not use this new chapter of your life to create some new traditions? Host a sober get-together with friends and family. Or, volunteer at a local 12-step group.
You could even take things one step further and choose to serve others this season. Give your time and effort to a local homeless shelter or soup kitchen. Giving back to others can change your perspective on the holidays, and boost your sense of self-worth.
When you understand your value, you’re less likely to give in to things that will cause you to backslide. You’ll also find more joy and gratitude in your life, which can keep you moving forward in a positive direction.
Practice Self-Care
One of the best things you can do to celebrate your sobriety this season is to practice self-care. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish – it’s necessary.
Find something to do every day that provides you with peace and relaxation. The holidays can be overwhelming and stressful. Things like meditation and mindfulness can help you to stay centered. Eating well, exercising, and journaling are also great ways to stay focused on the present and make your health a priority.
If you’re worried about the upcoming season, understand that you don’t have to go through it alone. Leaning on your support system or attending a group is a wonderful way to stay on track. But, if you’re struggling with triggers, addiction counseling can help you. Feel free to contact me. Together, we’ll work through an effective strategy that can help you to stay sober through the holidays, so you can start the new year on the right track.