A Quick Guide on What to Say to Someone on Their Sobriety Anniversary

Is someone you know approaching a sobriety milestone? You may want to congratulate them on their achievement, but what's the best way to do that? You'll want to encourage them while remaining sensitive to the subject.

If you're not sure how to do that, here are a few tips on what to say to someone on their sobriety anniversary.

I'm Proud of You

Whether your loved one has been sober for one year or 20, they're guaranteed to still struggle with their sobriety from time to time. That's why it's so important that the people closest to them recognize the hard work they put in.

Letting your loved one know you're proud of the work they're continuing to do is great encouragement to keep going. Hearing this sentiment will never get old, even as the years pass by.

I'm Happy You're Doing Well

It's important to recognize how well your loved one is doing. You'll probably notice a huge difference in their health and happiness since becoming sober. Tell your loved one that you're happy they're taking good care of themselves.

If your loved one knows you're happy because of their sobriety, it'll feel like you're invested in their recovery as much as they are. The last thing anyone wants is to feel alone when they're trying to stay sober.

You're an Inspiration

People battling addiction need the inspiration to start their recovery. Your loved one could be that inspiration for someone else. It's truly inspiring to watch someone come out of the downward spiral that alcohol and drug addiction can cause. 

Reminding your loved one that they are an inspiration may just be what they need to stay sober that year. Many past addicts become the inspiration for current addicts to get clean.

Celebrate

Sometimes, you don't need the words to show how proud you are. Recognizing each milestone by celebrating in your own special way is worth a thousand words. Perhaps it's an annual meal out or a trip to a theme park that your loved one enjoys.

You can also mark the occasion with AA chips so your loved one has something to show for each occasion. These chips are like a reward for every milestone your loved one surpasses.

You Deserve Happiness

Ex-addicts can easily fall off the wagon when they forget that they're worthy of health and happiness. During this milestone, you can remind your loved one that they deserve to be happy.

Reminding someone that they're worthy of the life they're leading could be what encourages them to stick with it at that moment in time.

Here's What to Say to Someone on Their Sobriety Anniversary

It's not easy to find what to say to someone on their sobriety anniversary, but it's okay to say what you feel. Expressing your pride and joy over the happy and healthy place they're in will remind them of why they work every day to stay sober.

Take a look at how to plan an alcohol-free party.