It can be a challenge to hold strong to your sobriety and stay present this holiday season. You already know that you have the power. You are in control of your life. Find an alcohol addiction treatment center near you if you need extra support.
A sober holiday is definitely possible this season with the tools and support that a center for alcohol rehab in Los Angeles offers. If you or someone you know needs help to stay present this holiday, contact the supportive team at Virtues Behavioral Health at 855.579.8599.
Holiday Sobriety Tips
Preparing for the holiday season is your best defense against relapse. Following are some excellent holiday sobriety tips to maintain sober living:
Plan to Stay Active
During holiday get-togethers, people often sit and chat, drinking as they do. It’s never too early to start coming up with alternatives. Skating, holiday concerts, or going to the movies or sports events are great alternatives. If you’re stuck indoors, plan to do things like baking and decorating holiday cookies, playing board games, and watching your favorite holiday movies.
Don’t Romance the Drink
If you hang out with people you used to drink with, and they start reminiscing about “the good old days,” leave. Those days are done. You’re a stronger person now, and you don’t need to start thinking about those drinking days. Keep the focus on your life right now.
Limit the Time You Spend with People Who Aggravate You
No rule states that you have to put up with a relative who constantly talks to you about your recovery or a co-worker who often remarks about drinking. If people are gathering for the holidays and you know someone will be there who drinks excessively, plan on leaving when this person arrives.
Serve Yourself
Whether you bring your own alcohol-free drinks or order for yourself at the bar, you can make sure you stay alcohol-free. Don’t let anyone else order for you or get you a drink. Also, keep a beverage in your hand the entire time to discourage others from asking if they can get you something to drink.
Don’t Go Alone
Bring along a sober companion to parties, gatherings, and events. If you can’t bring someone, take a person at the party into confidence (the host, waiter, or friend) and let them know that you can’t drink. Enlist them as somewhat of a bodyguard. Another idea is to arrange to text with someone you trust throughout the night. Build accountability however you can.
Keep Resentment in Check
The chances are good that you’ll be chatting with others who will ask if you mind if they have a drink. While you’ll likely say that you don’t mind, the truth is that you probably will. That’s OK. However, if you feel resentment toward others who are drinking, keep it in check. Instead, try one of the following:
- Find your sober buddy
- Text your friend
- Slip out and go to a meeting
- Check-in on a recovery forum or online meeting
Remember, there are people out there who support you and can help you through.
Be Prepared to Leave
If you are attending a gathering or event during the holidays and suddenly feel overwhelmed by temptation, leave right away. Your determination to stay present this holiday season must be stronger than temptation. Don’t try to test your limits. Keep your keys in your pocket and simply leave if it becomes necessary. You’ll be glad you did.
Stay Sober This Holiday Season with Virtues Behavioral Health
Enjoying a sober holiday is possible with alcohol rehab in Los Angeles. If you or someone you know needs help this season or at any time, reach out to our staff at Virtues Behavioral Health at 855.579.8599.
