Maintaining sobriety isn’t always easy, but it can be particularly difficult during the holidays. You may already be getting invitations to parties and other celebrations that you know will be packed with alcoholic drinks. As people prepare for the now-popular “Dry January,” they may want to get the most out of the season, so having alcohol-free holidays can become more difficult.
After completing a treatment program, you don’t want to risk all of the work you’ve put into sobriety, but does that mean that you have to sit out every party? Absolutely not. At Desert Cove Recovery, we have some tips that can make it easier for you to navigate the challenges of the holidays.
Be Honest About Your Sobriety
Speaking openly about your struggles with alcohol might not be your favorite activity, but it can help you throughout holiday celebrations. Letting loved ones know that you won’t be drinking because you have a substance use disorder can transform your friends and family into a support system. They can help hold you accountable and field questions from others if they see that you are struggling.
By speaking about your struggles honestly, you can also remove some of the stigma from the issue. You can help loved ones understand that 400 million people around the world have alcohol use disorders and that it’s an illness like any other.[1]
Have Alcohol-Free Parties
Hosting a booze-free party is one way to still enjoy a party without worrying about being triggered. These celebrations can focus on sharing time with loved ones and doing activities that don’t require alcohol consumption. You can even have an alcohol-free bar that provides delicious drinks, including virgin cocktails and holiday favorites.
Know Your Triggers
You must know what triggers your cravings so that you can take steps to avoid those situations. It will also give you a chance to plan. If you know you are going to a celebration at a location you associate with drinking, you can take steps like letting your sponsor know you may need some support. Often, knowing you may face triggers can be enough to help you feel more secure in your sobriety.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is one of the most important coping strategies when dealing with triggering situations. It allows you to focus on the present and stops your racing thoughts. Many mindfulness techniques can be useful, including deep breathing and body scans.
Try Sober Vacations for Alcohol-Free Holidays
If you want to try something new and give yourself the chance to relax without worrying about the constant presence of alcohol, go for sober vacations. There are booze-free cruises and alcohol-free bars where you can have the same great time without the temptation of alcohol. You can even find hotels that offer sober options.
Have a Support System
You must know who you can turn to for help if you’re struggling. That can be supportive family members or friends, or it could be your sponsor. Additionally, there are 12-step meetings throughout the country, so you can easily find one to attend even if you’re traveling. Being able to speak with someone about cravings or emotional difficulties you’re having can be significant.
Focus on Self-Care as Part of Alcohol-Free Holidays
The holidays are such a busy time that it’s easy to set aside routines that have helped you manage your sobriety. You may go to bed later than usual or eat sugary and fatty foods that don’t offer the required nutrition. All of that can put additional stress on your body, and that’s the last thing you need.
Focusing on self-care also means knowing when you need a break. Being surrounded by family members all day can become overwhelming, especially if not all are supportive. If you need to, take time away from the rest of the group. Practice relaxation exercises or sit quietly to find your balance once more. Self-care can make a difference in achieving long-term sobriety.
Have an Exit Strategy
No matter how much you may try to prepare for triggers, some will catch you unaware. Being at a party and getting powerful cravings requires quick action on your part to avoid a relapse. Having an exit plan in mind is vital. You may want to tell loved ones beforehand that you might leave early. You can use an excuse or tell them the real reason — that is entirely up to you and what you’re comfortable with.
If possible, it’s always a good idea to drive yourself to a party. That way, you can leave when you need to without depending on someone else.
Having Safe and Alcohol-Free Holidays
Sobriety can feel like a weight around your shoulders when you are surrounded by people who are having fun and sipping their cocktails. Staying sober doesn’t have to feel like a punishment, however. By trying new things during the holiday season and not feeling limited because you’re not consuming alcohol, you can still have a great time surrounded by loved ones.
At Desert Cove Recovery, we know the holidays might be a challenge if you are sober. It can be helpful to have help available, and that’s what we offer at our treatment center. If you need structured support, we have outpatient programs that can help you get to the underlying cause of your alcohol use disorder.
Contact our team to learn more about the options available at our treatment center.
Sources:
[1] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/alcohol
