8 Tips for Staying Sober During the Holidays
The holiday season can be a challenging time of year for those who are in recovery. Many triggers for relapse are often present, including spending extensive time around family, attending holiday parties or dinners where everyone is drinking, or simply feeling lonely. There are several helpful tips to keep in mind over the holidays so that you can maintain your sobriety.
1. Avoid certain situations
While avoidance is not always the best way to recover from your addiction, it’s often a helpful part of your sobriety journey at the start. In the beginning of recovery, your cravings will be stronger. If this is your first holiday season being sober, consider skipping certain holiday festivities during which it will be difficult to remain sober.
2. Have a plan
You already know what your triggers are and can envision what your holidays look like. Set boundaries around holiday dinners and parties and have a plan as to what time you’ll leave. Be your own transportation so that you aren’t depending on somebody else if you need to leave.
3. Bring a sober friend
Having somebody with you in solidarity with your sobriety makes all the difference. If you have someone else in your family or a coworker who doesn’t drink, buddy up with them and talk about supporting each other in sobriety during holiday gatherings.
4. Call your sponsor or accountability partner before/after holiday functions
Check in with your sponsor (if you have one) before going. This will affirm your commitment to your sobriety and will help tether you before facing some likely triggers. Checking in after the function will help hold you accountable. If you don’t have a sponsor, ask a friend or family member who is also sober (or simply someone who will hold you accountable) if you can check in with them before and after.
5. Have a drink in hand
Bring your own drinks if you don’t know if there will be non-alcoholic options. Having a drink in hand already will ward off any family members or co-workers offering you a drink. You don’t owe an explanation about your sobriety to someone unless you want to share. Having a drink in hand helps stop that conversation from coming up.
6. Have online sobriety support set-up ahead of time
There are many places online where you can connect with other sober people and get encouragement from others instantly. There is a free app called I Am Sober that has a community posting section, the subreddits r/sober and r/stopdrinking on Reddit, as well as countless Facebook groups that are dedicated to supporting others in their sobriety. The sobriety community is incredibly supportive of wherever you’re at in your recovery. Join these online spaces ahead of time so you can post and connect with others to get support in the moment if needed.
7. Volunteer
Finding ways to give back to your community gives a purpose and positivity to the holiday season. Volunteering helps shift the focus from your personal struggles to making a positive impact in someone else’s life. Consider creating a new, alcohol- and drug-free tradition centered around giving back. Volunteer at a food bank, homeless shelter, or other mutual aid organization that operates in your city. Many of these organizations need extra help around the holidays.
8. Keep a routine
The holidays can disrupt your regular schedule, which may leave you feeling ungrounded and more susceptible to relapse. Stick to regular habits like getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, and exercising to support your health. Maintain routines like journaling, meditation, or attending recovery meetings to create stability and stay focused on your sobriety goals.
In conclusion, maintaining your sobriety during the holidays may feel challenging, but with a little preparation it’s entirely possible. Lean on your support network, set boundaries, and prioritize activities that align with your goals. Celebrate your progress, and give yourself grace along the way. Sobriety is a gift to yourself that will continue to strengthen you far beyond the holiday season.