5 Ways to Stay Sober During the Holiday Season
The holidays are joyous—and let's face it, stressful. A study found that 88 percent of Americans feel stress during the holidays. Don't let this extra stress test your sobriety.
Wondering how to stay sober during the holiday season? It is certainly possible. Here are ways to stay sober this season so you can enjoy the magic of the holiday season and enjoy your friends, family, and loved ones.
1. Have a Plan
No matter where you are in your recovery, this is crucial to avoid holiday temptation. You don't want to be caught off guard, so prepare yourself on how to handle triggering situations.
Make sure you always have a way out of an event or party. This could be going with a friend or sponsor or driving your car. This way you can escape if you start to feel uncomfortable.
Know how you will turn down a drink. Think of what you will say to someone that may not know you very well. This could be always having a soda or water in hand.
You also need an idea of what you want to drink, like seltzer water, soda, or juice. Think of something you enjoy ahead of time, so you are prepared. You may need to request this or bring it with you.
2. Learn to Say No
This may seem like an old cliche, but avoid situations that can be tempting. For example, if your office party has an open bar, don't go. It is more important to maintain your sobriety than disappoint your co-workers.
3. Spend Time With Supportive People
You will need a lot of support during the holidays. Spend your time with people that are supportive and help reduce any temptation. You will feel less drained.
Everyone is stressed during the holidays in some way, so pick and choose who you hang out with. You can also support others during this time to help you take the focus off yourself.
4. Practice Self Care
You have to take care of yourself and fill your own bucket. Make sure you are getting plenty of sleep, eating healthy, and exercising. Find ways to limit your stress, so you don't feel tempted to use.
It's important to stay busy in a productive way. Find hobbies you enjoy. Do what makes YOU happy.
5. Stay Focused
Set goals for yourself for holiday sobriety. Think about how it felt to stay sober, no matter how long you have been in recovery. When you feel tempted, think about how good it feels to accomplish your goals.
The holidays can be challenging for all of us. Remember what is important and put everything into perspective. Talk to your family before get-togethers or set up regular meetings with your sponsor to check-in.
It's important to stay focused. Find ways to focus on the good whether it's writing positive thoughts in your journal each night or simply writing notes to yourself.
There Are Ways to Stay Sober During the Holidays
You can do this. You have come so far, and you should be proud. Prepare yourself for the holidays by finding ways to stay sober.
Take time to create a plan and exit strategy before you hang out with friends or family. By preparing yourself ahead of time, you will be ready to turn down that drink or get yourself out of a stressful situation.
The holidays are a time of cheer. You've got this! Check out our blog for more tips or order yourself a holiday coin or ornament to remind yourself of what's important: you and your recovery.