We put together 10 tips for staying sober at holiday parties because if you aren’t in recovery, chances are you know or love someone who is.

Most people can’t wait for the holidays and can’t wait to get together with families and friends to celebrate.  But those in recovery may find staying sober at holiday parties harder than they think. Our 10 tips for staying sober at holiday parties may be helpful.

10 tips for staying sober at holiday parties:

1.    Never forget what it was like before sobriety.  Remind yourself how miserable, sick, trapped, and alone you felt.  Sobriety feels great – but the only way to value this greatness is to remind ourselves what it was like before.

2.    Surround yourself with sober friends. Take a sober buddy to a party with you. Recovery is about helping people! Don’t forget to ask for help.

3.    Have a plan or know what you’re going to say if someone offers you a drink. Try these: “No thanks, I’m good.”  “I’m the designated driver, thanks.”  “No thank you.”  Remember you don’t need to explain anything unless you are comfortable doing so.

4.    Rethink your party obligations. Do you really have to go? Can you just make an appearance and leave? How important is it? It’s OK to limit your party commitments.

5.    Pray. Pray. And pray some more. Sometimes we forget one of the easiest things to do.

6.    Double or triple up on your meetings.  Take care of yourself – holidays don’t mean ‘time off’ from meetings.

7.    Plan your exit! Don’t rely on someone to get you or take you home from the party.  Know when you want to leave and stick to the plan.

8.    H.A.L.T! Don’t let yourself get hungry, angry, lonely or tired!

9.    Keep your sponsor up-to-date on where you will be and check in often.

10.  Don’t be afraid to celebrate – have confidence – you can do this! There are many ways to have fun sober.

These 10 tips for staying sober at holiday parties can apply to any get-together where alcohol and or substances are being used. Keep the list close to you and refer to it if you need.

If you or someone you know needs treatment for alcoholism, please contact us at (337) 379.7700

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