Celebrating Summer When Sober
Summer brings warm weather, bright sunshine, and a plethora of barbeques, festivals, and parties. However, for individuals in recovery or those who prefer to avoid alcohol, it can feel overwhelming in celebratory environments. When speaking to our clinical contributor, Dr. Krushen Pillay, he noted, “Summer relapse rates often spike due to the increased social pressure to drink and the ubiquity of alcohol at events. Societal norms heavily emphasize drinking as part of celebration, which can be challenging for those in recovery.” Should you or a loved one find this scenario strikingly familiar, rest assured that we have some practical tips in order to make necessary preparations prior to attending your summer event.
Tap into the Power of Your Support Network
Joining events alongside fellow individuals in recovery can be a powerful way to strengthen your support network. Whether it’s a sober gathering or simply bringing a friend who understands your journey to a party, being surrounded by like-minded individuals can provide a sense of camaraderie and understanding. Additionally, reaching out to your sponsor or other support systems before attending such events can offer valuable guidance and reassurance. A few words of wisdom from someone who has walked a similar path can make a significant difference. If you regularly attend meetings, consider planning to attend a few extra sessions leading up to, on the day of, or even after the event. This proactive approach can help you stay grounded and connected during potentially challenging times.
Have an Exit Plan in Place
Establish boundaries for yourself and pinpoint potential risky scenarios in advance. Always have an exit strategy in place and be ready to remove yourself from any situation if necessary. Whether you’re driving your own vehicle or attending gatherings, make sure to have a trusted companion who is also willing to depart promptly if the need arises.
Be Selective
Avoid allowing the fear of missing out (FOMO) to push you into situations where you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. Remember, you are not obligated to say yes to every social invitation that comes your way. It’s important to prioritize your well-being and surround yourself with a strong support system of friends and family who understand and respect your journey towards sobriety and recovery.
Instead of succumbing to the pressure of attending every event, focus on nurturing relationships with those who genuinely care about your health and happiness. By surrounding yourself with positive influences, you can create a safe and supportive environment that encourages your continued growth and progress. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your well-being and make choices that align with your recovery goals.
Host Your Own Gathering
If you find that the invitations you’re getting are making you uncomfortable and putting your commitment to sobriety at risk, why not host your own alcohol-free gathering? By doing so, you have the freedom to invite people who truly support your decision and you also get to unleash your creativity. Whether you opt for a potluck get-together featuring delicious food and mocktails, or decide on a themed party where your guests can get involved in the party planning fun, you can guarantee that the event will be in line with your definition of a good time.
Let’s all have a summer that feels GREAT to us!
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