The holidays will soon be upon us, and though they can bring much laughter and joy to people all over the world, they can also be a source of great stress for many people, including those in recovery. Alcohol can flow liberally at holiday parties and family gatherings, and watching others partake in Alcohol and not being able to join in can feel alienating and disheartening, but it doesn’t have to be.
There are many people in recovery who have and continue to navigate the holiday season while remaining clean and sober. Below are seven tips to help you stay sober through this holiday season, and many more to come.
Plan
Make sure to plan for your holidays and how you will be spending them. It’s easier to keep your mind off of drinking when you’re able to have something else on which to focus. Plan out activities to do with your family members or friends, especially those around you who are supportive of your recovery.
Find Meetings to Attend
If you’re traveling for the holidays, find a meeting or meetings near where you’ll be staying and make time to go to them. Having that support system and familiarity can be a huge help during the holidays.
Start New Traditions
If you’re not able to make it home for the holidays for whatever reason, or you are but maybe the traditions there aren’t the best for your sobriety, create some new traditions. Bring some delicious, non-alcoholic beverages for people to enjoy; suggest an activity such as a nice leisurely walk; offer to play a football game in the backyard to get everyone out of the house; recommend anything that makes people bond and spend time together. Whatever you feel would best help you and your family have a nice, smooth holiday without relapsing, give it a try. And if you try it and discover that it’s not necessarily something you want to continue doing from now on, no worries; You have a whole year to come up with new traditions.
Take Care of Yourself
Taking care of yourself is just as important during the holidays as it is during any other time of the year. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat food when needed, exercise (if that’s your thing) and stay in contact with a supportive source, such as a close friend or family member that you can talk to if needed.
Remember: This Too Shall Pass
Just like any other time of life, whether good or bad, this too shall pass. Nothing lasts forever, and remembering that there will come a time when you’re not in your current situation can help you cope better during those hard times. It’s a reminder that this moment will soon be over, and a new one will come to take its place.
Remember Why Your Sobriety Matters to You
Think back to why you entered recovery and keep a physical reminder with you at all time. This reminder could be a letter you’ve written yourself, a memento that helps remind you, anything that is small and you can keep with you in case you need an extra boost throughout the day.
Be Prepared to Address Your Sobriety
It’s not always easy admitting you have a drinking problem, but for those who find themselves in the position of being around Alcohol or being offered an alcoholic drink, it may be a necessity. Preparing phrases in advance such as “I don’t drink.” or “No thank you, but maybe a soda or water?” can help take away some of the stress of what to say when being offered a drink and not wanting to be rude.
If you’re not comfortable saying anything like that, or feeling as though you might have to explain the reason behind your no, stating that you’re on medication right now, or are the designated driver can help you say no in a polite way while also providing a reason why for those who may be a bit nosy.
No matter how you celebrate the holiday season, whether with friends or family, traveling or staying at home, know that you can stay sober and have an enjoyable time with your loved ones.
