The holiday season always involves many gatherings that include tasty dinners and fun times for family and friends. However, for some individuals, the holiday season can also present many triggers that could cause us to relapse. The solution might be a sober holiday season.
At Sophros Recovery, we understand the challenges that the holiday season presents and are here to help. To learn more tips for having a sober holiday season, reach out to one of our experienced staff at 904.760.4295. Here are some tips for celebrating an alcohol-free holiday.
Create a Plan of Action for Sober Holidays
Attending events within the sober living community can be good, but there are times when you will have to branch out. You will be invited to gatherings with coworkers, friends, and family members. Of course, if some of your social circle is from your past and might trigger you in ways that could compromise your sobriety, then you should consider not attending. However, if you believe you can handle an event outside of your sober community, do so with a plan. Before attending, you should develop a plan of action that will support you in navigating situations that might trigger you. Your plan might include:
- The arrival time
- Your time for leaving the party
- How you can handle someone offering you alcohol
- How you can navigate triggers that might make you want to drink
Acknowledge Your Triggers
Remember that your emotional triggers are what can cause you to relapse. Identify those triggers and pay attention to their presence at events. If it’s a person or a place and the feeling is too great, make a decision to decline the event in advance. You should also have a plan for if you are at the event and the presence of someone or something causes you to feel uncomfortable.
Bring Your Own Drinks
If you are attending a work event or even a family gathering, be prepared with your own drinks. You can pack soda, seltzers, apple cider, and other non-alcoholic drinks. By bringing your own drinks, you are placing yourself in control of your actions because you are prepared with alternatives to alcohol.
Plan An Alcohol-Free Holiday Event
The beauty of belonging to a sober community is that you are all present to support each other. Why not plan an alcohol-free holiday event? At your event, you can play games, decorate a tree, or even exchange gifts. If you are not much of a party planner, you can always find out about sober holiday events online.
Who Is Your On-Call Sober Friend?
If you are attending a holiday event, you might be tempted to drink alcohol. Before attending, you need to appoint someone that you can call to hold you accountable if you are tempted to drink. This is known as your sober friend or sober buddy. In advance, alert your friend that you are attending an event where triggers might be present and that you might need their support. The beauty of a sober buddy is that they can support you in avoiding alcohol. Before attending, they can discuss your plan to avoid triggers, or they can remind you to pack your drinks. The following day, your sober buddy can meet you for brunch or a walk so that you can discuss your event and how you worked hard to remain sober.
Celebrate a Sober Holiday Season with Sophros Recovery
There’s no reason that you have to isolate yourself during the holiday season. There are many ways to have a great time while also having an alcohol-free holiday season. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve, Sophros Recovery is here to support you in having a sober holiday season. The therapists, supporting staff, and peers will help you identify your triggers and find productive ways of coping with your triggers. Contact 904.760.4295 to discover the impact our sober living community will have on your life.
