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But it can alienate people who are sober, and that sense of isolation can become another trigger. Holiday parties often include alcohol and can be tricky to navigate for people who are in any stage of the recovery process. Our treatment programs are individualized plans of care created to help those with addiction issues. These programs can be short-term or long-term, depending on your needs. We tailor our programs to each person so we can create an environment conducive to healing.
Be mindful of what you’re drinking—and thinking
This could be sparkling water, flavored seltzers, or non-alcoholic mocktails. Get professional help from an online addiction and mental health counselor from BetterHelp. It’s the perfect season “to have some lovely hot chocolates, take them outdoors and go ice skating,” says Kate Baily, a women’s health coach in the U.K. The detox lifestyle shared has assisted past guests with rehab from alcohol and nicotine, plus even releasing coffee, sugar, and starches usage. Boulders Beach, Cape Town, South Africa, home to the African Penguin, impressive granite Boulders, and sheltered beaches welcomes you to this once in a lifetime yoga and detox retreat.
Why choose sober holidays for your recovery journey?
At Mindful Recovery Coaching, we offer sober holidays as a unique approach to addiction recovery. Our wellness retreats are designed to help you stay sober during the holidays, providing a supportive environment for those in recovery. Whether you’re dealing with drug, alcohol, or other addictions, our sober holidays can provide the companionship and planning you need to maintain your sobriety. Engaging in alternative activities can make sober holidays enjoyable. Options include crafting mocktails, exploring outdoor adventures, and participating in social events like trivia nights or photo walks. Pursuing these activities can bring joy and fulfillment during sober celebrations.
Practicing self-care is essential for managing this stress and staying committed to your goals. You don’t want to start thinking about your drinking or using days. The communal aspect of addiction support groups can offer comfort during the holidays, especially after a relapse, when you may not be feeling your best. There are plenty of sober holiday traditions that you and your loved ones can create together to strengthen your recovery. Here are some relapse prevention tips and self-care ideas for the holiday season, or any time.
Prepare for Potential Emotional Challenges After Returning Home
You don’t want to change your focus to thoughts of your drinking or using days. That can lead to preoccupation and obsession, and then to cravings. Keep your focus on your life right now, your life in recovery. Reminding yourself, “I’m here for my peace, not for pleasing others,” can be powerful. It helps shift the focus away from what’s missing and towards what you’re gaining.
- What better time to think about how to stay sober during the holidays?
- Moments when friends ask why you’re not indulging in the spiked eggnog, or insist that you participate in a champagne-fueled toast on New Year’s Eve.
- If you come prepared to protect your sobriety, you should be able to outmaneuver addiction and avoid any potential relapses.
- Remember, having a drink in hand can reduce social pressure to consume alcohol.
- If you’re looking for resources and tools to help you stay on track in your recovery during the holidays, AddictionResource.net has got you covered.
- Loneliness during the holiday season can be challenging for individuals with alcohol addiction.
- Driving ourselves to a party or being sure we can access a car service should we carpool is an important detail to keep in mind.
If you’re looking for a community that understands the challenges of staying sober during the holidays, California Recovery Center is here to help. Our programs and events provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals in recovery. Together, let’s make this holiday season one to remember—full of joy, connection, and hope.
- It’s a reminder that you can build joy and peace without a drink in hand.
- Here are some of the best sober travel ideas that you will love.
- It’s only a sip, and it doesn’t mean you’ve relapsed—or that you should entertain the thought of relapsing now.
- Sometimes, even well-meaning family won’t understand your boundaries.
- The holiday season is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, filled with celebrations, family gatherings, and cherished traditions.
- The best way to get through a sober holiday season, or any other holiday, is to take time to look after your own needs.
The holiday season can amplify feelings and memories that are tough to handle, creating emotional pressure to fall back on old habits. Recognizing these triggers helps you prepare, making it easier to avoid risky situations. Driving ourselves to a party or being sure we can access a car service should we carpool is an important detail to keep in mind.
- Modern Saraylar Hotel offers a calm, welcoming space where families and sober travellers can relax without the pressure of alcohol.
- Mindfulness can be a powerful tool in maintaining sobriety.
- This might include hosting a sober holiday gathering, volunteering at a local charity, or organizing a fun, substance-free activity with loved ones.
- Ensure that you get enough rest, eat well, and engage in activities that promote your well-being.
- If Uncle Brian is going to mix you a stiff drink, stay away from him.
- Viceroy Riviera Maya shows that enjoying luxury and lively surroundings doesn’t mean compromising sobriety.
Staying sober from drugs and alcohol during the holidays, for some, is only half the battle for staying grounded and secure in recovery. They also might Substance abuse involve drinking, which people in recovery from alcohol addiction often find to be another trigger. If you’re feeling isolated or unable to connect with your usual support system, take advantage of online recovery communities. Many organizations offer virtual meetings or forums where you can find encouragement and camaraderie, even during the busiest times of the year. Holiday celebrations introduce specific obstacles for those in recovery, emphasizing the need for preparation and awareness. Social events often revolve around food and drinks, with alcohol playing a central role.
The holidays are a perfect time to be of service to others, and you’ll benefit while you give back. Recovery happens one day at a time, even — or maybe especially — during the holidays. While thinking about the holidays as a thing that looms large and may be full of triggers can cause anxiety, you’re only responsible for the day ahead of you. Every decision to remain sober, especially in challenging environments, is a victory. Acknowledge these small wins and allow yourself to feel proud of your choices. This positive reinforcement can strengthen your commitment and provide motivation during difficult times.
’” Despite having access to “unlimited wine all the time” growing up and currently, she doesn’t drink — or much, which she sometimes tells people. “I don’t experience any of that as far as if I’m around a bunch of people, I feel like I should be drinking,” he said. “As far as me being around people who are drinking, I would say for the first four or five years, it was weird,” he said. Hosting your own sober holiday party gives you complete control over the environment and ensures an alcohol-free celebration. By focusing on a nutritious breakfast and engaging in physical activity, you’re setting a positive tone for your sober Christmas morning.
Addiction relapse may be identifiable by physical signs of substance use, changes in behavior, or other cognitive or emotional symptoms of intoxication. Have a bedtime routine that allows you enough time to process what happened during the day. Maybe you need a few minutes to meditate before going to bed. On the other hand, identifying your triggers and strategies to manage them puts that power back in your hands. Ignoring triggers leaves you more susceptible to their influence in recovery, and allows them to maintain power over you.
No One Recovers Alone: Vic’s Journey from Rock Bottom to Redemption
This might mean declining invitations to gatherings where alcohol is the focus or setting limits on the time you spend at certain events. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your sobriety over social obligations. While you don’t owe anyone an explanation for your healthy choices, filling your glass with a nonalcoholic beverage is one way to avoid drink offers.
This time is for you to rest, reflect, or rewind while listening to a podcast, music, or reading. This is also a great time to incorporate new practices into your routine. Start the day with a walk, journaling your feelings, or dedicating time to hobbies that make you happy.