The point of all this, don’t forget, is to enjoy the holidays. How those in recovery and those who care about them navigate this with at least some degree of comfort, is highly varied. This may require opening new lines of communication that brings you out of your comfort zone.

The Sober School

I have learned to be empathetic to the differing opinions of each of my children. I keep in mind that they all have different levels of acceptance and understanding. In turn, each of them has friends who have varying opinions on alcoholism, addiction, and mental health.

• To say someone drinks like a fish is to say they drink a lot.
• You tell yourself, “I deserve this drink.” And on the surface, it feels like a straightforward way to relax.
• Sue is also a fine artist and painter, who enjoys traveling the world which continues to provide unlimited inspiration for her work.
• To say the drinks are on me just means that you are paying for the drinks (and it implies you’ll be paying for ALL the drinks during that event or occasion).

How do you maintain a social life when you don’t drink?

Having a network of people who encourage your decision not only bolsters your determination but also plays an essential role in combating the allure of drinking. Relying upon someone like a trusted family member, supportive friend, or designated “sober buddy” during moments prone to temptation may prove indispensable. Being surrounded by friends who frequently indulge in alcohol can pose a daunting obstacle for those striving to stay sober. The pressure to conform with social customs is particularly intense when alcohol consumption is deeply integrated into social events.

Maintaining social relationships while sober

One of the greatest gifts of sobriety is being able to say goodbye to Sober living house hangovers for good. Plan something fun for the morning after a night out, such as a hike or an early breakfast at a trendy new restaurant you’ve been wanting to check out. While everyone drinks, take comfort in the fact that you will have a productive morning because you chose sobriety. If you drink and know it’s time to stop but think it will be too hard, I love you and encourage you to seek help. A traditional approach like Alcoholics Anonymous might be for you, or another group may be a may be a better fit. Here’s a great list of options to help with sobriety.

Start Prioritizing Your Physical Health

Here are some tips on how to have an alcohol-free or alcohol-lite winter when everyone’s getting on the sauce. Unfortunately we need your permission to store your personal information to help us to assess the best support we could provide or signpost you to. If at any stage you change your mind and are happy to provide your personal information please come back and visit us again. Developing strategies to handle friendships with those who drink can improve the odds of continuing to live successfully with your sobriety. While smoking has seen significant regulatory changes and a shift in public opinion, alcohol still lags behind. The industry’s power in advertising and cultural influence means that change is slow.

Creating a Life of Excellence Beyond Sobriety – Since 1999 –

Let them partner with being sober around drinkers you as you create your sobriety plan. Depending on your health evaluation, your doctor can advise you on the best way forward. The first month of sobriety is going to test you – maybe more than you’ve ever been tested before. I also highly recommend this podcast episode from Andrew Huberman.

Bipolar I vs Bipolar II: Understanding the Difference and …

They may be fearful of admitting they have a problem, and they may fear the consequences that can result from having an alcohol addiction. Instead of recognizing this fear and attempting to overcome it in order to heal, alcoholics may show signs of denial or blame others. Some people experience the pink cloud in the beginning and appear to do great. Other people feel like every second is a small torture. And thus starts the vicious cycle of drinking to feel relief from anxiety and depression which makes these conditions worse. For more on the benefits of exercise on mental health, I highly recommend this talk by Wendy Suzuki.