But I’d also used with a handful of people I’d been friends with since grade school, and really alcoholism valued those relationships. I quickly realized that redefining how we spent time together was key, so instead of going out at night together, I’d suggest we grab lunch instead. They weren’t wasted, and I wasn’t at a party surrounded by relapse triggers trying to tamp down a rising panic attack. On the one hand, you have no idea what you’re supposed to do with yourself. A lot of people don’t feel good when they first get sober, so it’s totally understandable if your feelings are all over the place. Sometimes people feel like they are abandoning their family, friends, and loved ones when they begin their recovery journey.
Recruit Support
Having a drink in your hand is often the first line of defense against pushy friends and colleagues when you are avoiding alcohol. Try to choose something other than water so that you feel like you are having a treat. Mocktails can be made to taste like a wide variety of cocktails and served in a fancy glass, only sans alcohol (so they taste even better)! Virgin mojitos are especially tasty and look like the real thing if you are trying to avoid prying questions about your beverage choice. Of course, always be aware of your triggers and avoid drinking anything that may be too similar to the alcoholic drinks you once favored.
- Dealing with the withdrawal symptoms of alcohol addiction is difficult enough without having to deal with unnecessary extra temptation.
- I went to a bar with my friends a few weeks back and once again out of the 4 of us I was the only who didn’t drink.
- Finding a supportive and sober social circle can be difficult.
- Having a flavorful and refreshing drink in hand can enhance your social experience.
- You don’t have to provide more details if you don’t want to do so.
Should Others Drink Around a Recovering Alcoholic? Tips to Stay Sober at Holiday Parties
If you’ve been worried about staying sober on St. Patrick’s Day, know that you don’t have to deal with your concerns alone. For extra support, it may be worth looking into online programs like Ria Health. Legend has it that Saint Patrick liked to have a drink from time to time—but funnily enough, that’s how to stay sober when everyone else is drinking not the reason people drink on his holiday.
Offer a Helping Hand
You can also claim DD status by driving yourself and a friend to the bar. Just check with your friend to make sure they’re okay to leave when you are. Another good idea is to invite another friend who you know is also trying to stay away from alcohol.
Top Benefits of Quitting Alcohol (Even Temporarily)
When you’re having drinks you’ll happily do it all night. If you like dancing, you’ll do it for hours when you’ve got some alcohol in you. If you don’t drink, it’s helpful if you can still keep up with these activities. You may have to grow a thick skin for long pub conversations, or develop the guts to dance sober.
Early sobriety is a critical period when community and support networks are critical. This can be hard if your social life previously revolved around drinking. It’s even harder if your loved ones don’t support your sobriety.
- Have an exit strategy if needed, such as checking the nearest bus stop, pre-booking transport, or calling upon a sober friend.
- Good friends accept your life of sobriety and are happy to support you.
- And, of course, your friends may want to go to bars, clubs, or other events where alcohol is one of the main attractions.
- And if you’re struggling, being able to reach out to other people who get it – but are ploughing on regardless – is very inspiring.