Staying sober during a holiday like new years eve can be hard. But there are a few ways to make it easier. Some of those ways are making a plan and surrounding yourself with sober people.
Understanding What Sobriety Means
Sobriety refers to being sober or not being under the influence of alcohol or other substances. It can also refer to the process of becoming and staying sober or a lifestyle in which one abstains from using alcohol or other substances. People in recovery from alcohol use or substance use disorder are often referred to as sober people.
For some people, sobriety may mean not drinking alcohol at all, while for others it may mean drinking alcohol only in moderation or on certain occasions. Sobriety can be important in maintaining your health, relationships, and overall well-being. It can also be an important step for those struggling with addiction or substance abuse.
Achieving and maintaining sobriety, also called the recovery process, can be challenging. It often involves making significant changes to your lifestyle and coping with challenges that may arise along the way. However, it is possible to achieve and maintain long-term recovery with the right support and resources.
Why is it Hard to Stay Sober on a Holiday?
Social pressure is a huge reason it can be challenging to be sober in a culture where alcohol and drugs are seen as a necessary part of socializing and celebrating. Sober people may feel like they are missing out or feel pressure from others to become intoxicated. The risk of relapse during the holiday season is drastically higher than the rest of the year.
Another reason people have a difficult time staying sober during the holiday season is because of relapse triggers. Certain situations or experiences may trigger a craving for alcohol or drugs. It can be nearly impossible to avoid these triggers or cope with their cravings when they arise.
While there are many reasons staying sober on a holiday is difficult, these two are some of the most common. There are many less common reasons, like financial instability, strong emotions, or a mental illness. Sometimes, psychological dependence to the substance of your choice is a hurdle to be overcome, or maybe even withdrawals from the substance. But the good news is, there are a few tips that can help with creating a new memorable, healthy holiday tradition.
The Best Tips for a Sober New Year’s Eve
Remember your reasons for staying sober: It can be helpful to remind yourself why you decided to stay sober, whether for your health, relationships, or other personal reasons. This can help you stay motivated and focused on your goals.
Plan ahead: Make sure you have a plan for how you will celebrate the holiday without alcohol or drugs. This could involve finding a sober event to attend, having a party with non-alcoholic beverages, or spending time with friends or family who also plan to be sober.
Surround yourself with supportive people: Spend time with friends and family members who will support your decision to stay sober and not pressure you to drink or use drugs.
Find alternative ways to celebrate: Instead of drinking or using, try doing something else that brings you joy and helps you celebrate the new year. This could be dancing, watching movies, playing games, or going for a hike. This is a time to start new traditions!
Practice self-care: Take care of yourself by getting plenty of rest, eating well, and engaging in activities that nourish your mind and body. This will help you feel good and handle any challenges that may arise during the holiday.
Have an escape plan: If you feel trapped or pressured too much, having an escape plan is essential to maintaining sobriety at a holiday event. Know where the exits are, know how to get to your vehicle, and make sure anyone who needs to know you are leaving is aware.
Reach out for support if needed: If you feel like you need extra support or are struggling with the temptation to drink or use drugs, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend, family member, or a professional for help.Finding a 12-step program meeting can be beneficial also.
Where Can I Find My Resource Options?
Calling Agape Treatment Center would be a great way to learn about the resources available to you. Between their highly trained admissions counselors and their vast knowledge of local resources, Agape can help you with the right plan for you.
If staying sober during the holidays is too big of a challenge, and you find you have relapsed, Agape Treatment Center can also discuss treatment options with you. There are many different programs, all tailored to the individual’s needs.
Stephanie Robilio is an accomplished Clinical Director at Agape Behavioral Healthcare. With a Master of Social Work degree, LCSW license, and extensive training in Rapid Resolution Therapy under her belt, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her unique combination of education and experience allows her to provide exceptional care to clients and lead her team with confidence. Stephanie’s joy comes from witnessing the moments when her patients creatively connect the dots and bravely move toward reclaiming their power. Her purpose is to help individuals understand their past so they can create a future full of hope, growth, and success. Stephanie attributes a large portion of her success to the supportive culture and strong sense of community fostered by the Agape team.
