Drinking holidays are an especially challenging time for those in recovery. You are often encouraged to place yourself in situations full of temptations for alcohol abuse. It’s important to be mindful about attending parties and other events that may have the potential to trigger a relapse. Fresh Start Recovery Center’s alcohol addiction treatment program teaches patients the tools they need to engage in difficult situations once they return to their everyday lives. Consider reaching out to Fresh Start at 833.625.0398 for more information about how our treatment program can help provide the skills you need in recovery.
Staying Safe and Sober This 4th of July
If you plan on going out with friends or family this 4th of July, consider bringing someone with you who is either in recovery or plans not to drink. Before deciding where you will be going, consider reaching out to the host to ask about activities that are planned, as well as what snacks and beverages will be available. This can give you an opportunity to learn if there will be non-alcoholic drink options without having to ask directly.
While attending an event, hold a beverage:
- Soda
- Seltzer
- Mineral water
- Non-alcoholic cocktail (mocktail)
Keeping a beverage in your hand throughout an event will discourage others from asking if they can get you a drink. This can help avoid uncomfortable conversations. Don’t worry, you can sip from a non-alcoholic beverage, and no one will know the difference.
Practice your answers to potentially triggering questions, so your responses feel automatic. This way, if someone asks about your choices, you’re prepared.
Have a plan to politely excuse yourself from an event if it becomes necessary. Having a friend periodically check could help with this. It’s a good idea to have a sponsor or close friend available in case you feel tempted to abuse alcohol and need to leave a situation. Ideally, have your own mode of transportation available so you can leave when you want to if you need to.
Self-Care on Drinking Holidays
Drinking holidays are an opportunity for those in recovery to practice self-care. People will find ways to enjoy themselves. You are allowed to give yourself the space to worry about yourself, your triggers, your comfort, and your needs.
Don’t feel bad if you end up needing to turn down invitations or say you can’t make an event that you previously committed to attending. A simple response, such as “I appreciate the invitation, I’m sorry I will not be able to be there,” is enough. There will always be other opportunities during situations that may be safer for you. Your recovery and maintaining a healthy, sober life should always be your top priority.
There are millions of Americans who battle alcohol addiction on a daily basis. If you are worried that you or someone close to you could benefit from an alcohol addiction treatment program, contact the specialists at Fresh Start Recovery Center’s alcohol addiction treatment program today for immediate assistance.
Learn More about Fresh Start’s Alcohol Addiction Treatment Options Today
Highly skilled medical professionals at Fresh Start Recovery Center individualize the care we provide to each and every one of our clients. Some of the ways we do this is by offering a wide range of programs of services that include:
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
- Outpatient treatment program (OP)
- Aftercare program
- Relapse prevention program
Fresh Start also offers prominent therapeutic treatments, including:
Fresh Start Recovery Center’s alcohol addiction treatment program in Maryland is available for those ready to begin their personal healing journey. Reach out today at 833.625.0398 to speak with a trained professional who can help you decide the treatment options that are right for you or your loved one.
