How to Be Sober During Christmas: A 24-Hour Survival Guide
Introduction
Staying sober during Christmas can feel like a marathon. But it's doable with the right plan.
This guide gives you a 24-hour roadmap to navigate the holiday alcohol-free.
You'll learn how to handle triggers, social pressure, and family expectations.
We'll cover practical tips for every part of Christmas Day. From morning activities to festive dinners.
By the end, you'll have a toolkit to enjoy a sober, meaningful Christmas.
Step 1: Prepare a Sober Christmas Game Plan
Identify Potential Triggers
The first step in your sober Christmas game plan is to recognize what might tempt you to drink. Holiday triggers are often personal, but some common ones include:
1. Family gatherings
2. Office parties
3. Christmas markets or festivals
4. Stress from holiday preparations
5. Feelings of loneliness or isolation
6. Nostalgic memories associated with drinking
Once you've identified your triggers, develop strategies to manage them:
Avoid High-Risk Situations
If possible, steer clear of events or locations where alcohol is the main focus. For example, skip the office happy hour and suggest a team lunch instead.
Prepare Coping Mechanisms
For unavoidable triggers, have a plan ready:
- Practice deep breathing exercises
- Keep a stress ball or fidget toy in your pocket
- Have a list of phone numbers for sober friends you can call
- Prepare a quick exit strategy if things get overwhelming
Create a Support Network
Building a strong support system is crucial for maintaining sobriety during the holidays. Here's how to do it:
Reach Out to Sober Friends or Sponsors
1. Make a list of sober friends or sponsors you can rely on
2. Schedule check-ins with them throughout the holiday season
3. Ask if they're available for emergency calls or texts
4. Consider attending extra support group meetings during this time
Communicate Your Sobriety Goals to Family
Open communication with family members about your sobriety is essential. Here's how to approach it:
1. Choose a calm moment to have the conversation
2. Be clear about your decision to stay sober
3. Explain how they can support you (e.g., not offering you drinks, keeping alcohol out of sight)
4. Suggest alcohol-free activities you can enjoy together
Remember, not all family members may be supportive. Have a plan for dealing with unsupportive reactions:
- Prepare responses to common objections
- Set clear boundaries about what you're comfortable with
- Be ready to limit time with unsupportive family members if necessary
Plan Alcohol-Free Activities
Keeping busy with enjoyable, sober activities is key to avoiding temptation. Here are some ideas:
Festive Non-Alcoholic Activities
1. Host a Christmas movie marathon
2. Organize a holiday baking competition
3. Plan a winter nature walk or hike
4. Volunteer at a local charity or food bank
5. Attend a Christmas concert or play
Modify Traditional Christmas Activities
Some holiday traditions may need tweaking to fit your sober lifestyle:
1. Replace mulled wine with spiced apple cider
2. Host a mocktail mixing contest instead of a cocktail party
3. Swap out boozy advent calendars for ones filled with tea, coffee, or small gifts
4. Create new traditions that don't involve alcohol, like a family game night or a Christmas light tour
Remember, planning is key. Fill your calendar with these sober activities in advance to avoid last-minute temptations or boredom.
By identifying triggers, building a support network, and planning alcohol-free activities, you're setting yourself up for a successful sober Christmas. This preparation will help you face the challenges of Christmas morning with confidence and resolve.
Step 2: Navigate Christmas Morning Sober
Start with a Healthy Breakfast
Christmas morning can be a challenging time for those maintaining sobriety. A healthy breakfast is crucial to set the right tone for the day. It helps stabilize your mood and provides the energy needed to face potential challenges.
Nutritious Breakfast Ideas
1. Oatmeal with fresh berries and nuts
2. Greek yogurt parfait with granola and honey
3. Whole grain toast with avocado and poached eggs
4. Spinach and mushroom omelet with a side of fruit
These options offer a balance of complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. They provide sustained energy and help maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the morning.
The Link Between Nutrition and Sobriety
Good nutrition plays a vital role in supporting sobriety. A healthy breakfast helps jumpstart your metabolism, which can help reduce cravings and support your recovery. This is especially important during the holidays when stress and temptation may be higher.
By starting your day with a nutritious meal, you're not just satisfying hunger. You're also:
- Stabilizing blood sugar levels
- Improving mood and energy
- Reducing cravings for alcohol
- Supporting overall recovery efforts
Engage in Physical Activity
After breakfast, engaging in physical activity can significantly boost your mood and reduce stress. This step is crucial in navigating a sober Christmas morning.
Morning Exercise Suggestions
1. Brisk walk around the neighborhood (20-30 minutes)
2. Home workout routine (yoga, bodyweight exercises, or follow an online fitness video)
3. Dance to your favorite Christmas music (15-20 minutes)
4. If weather permits, a short jog or bike ride
Choose an activity that you enjoy and fits your fitness level. The goal is to get your body moving and your endorphins flowing.
Benefits of Physical Activity for Sobriety
Physical activity offers numerous benefits for those maintaining sobriety:
1. Endorphin release: Exercise naturally boosts endorphins, often referred to as "feel-good" hormones. This can help reduce cravings and improve overall mood.
2. Stress reduction: Exercise is a natural and healthy way to improve your mood. Physical activity can help manage stress, which is often a trigger for alcohol use.
3. Improved sleep: Regular exercise can lead to better sleep quality, which is essential for recovery and overall well-being.
4. Structure and routine: Incorporating morning exercise into your Christmas routine provides structure, which can be helpful in maintaining sobriety.
5. Self-esteem boost: Completing a workout can give you a sense of accomplishment, boosting your confidence to face the day ahead.
Tips for Incorporating Morning Exercise
1. Prepare workout clothes the night before
2. Set a realistic goal (e.g., 20 minutes of activity)
3. Invite a family member or friend to join you
4. Reward yourself with a relaxing post-workout activity (e.g., a warm shower or your favorite non-alcoholic beverage)
Remember, the key is consistency, not intensity. Even a short walk can make a significant difference in how you navigate the rest of your sober Christmas day.
By focusing on a nutritious breakfast and engaging in physical activity, you're setting a positive tone for your sober Christmas morning. These steps provide a solid foundation for facing the rest of the day's challenges and celebrations with confidence and clarity.
Step 3: Stay Sober During Christmas Lunch and Dinner
Bring Your Own Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Holiday meals often revolve around alcohol. But you can still enjoy festive drinks without compromising your sobriety. Bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages ensures you always have a safe option. It also shows others you're committed to your choice.
Festive Non-Alcoholic Drink Recipes
1. Cranberry Sparkler
- Mix cranberry juice with sparkling water
- Add a splash of lime juice
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary
2. Spiced Apple Cider
- Heat apple cider with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices
- Serve warm in a mug with a cinnamon stick stirrer
3. Virgin Mojito
- Muddle lime juice, mint leaves, and sugar
- Add ice and top with soda water
- Garnish with a lime wheel and mint sprig
To learn about mocktails including their history and benefits, click here.
Handle Food-Alcohol Pairings
Many holiday dishes are traditionally paired with specific alcoholic drinks. This can make abstaining challenging. Here's how to handle it:
1. Research non-alcoholic pairings: Find mocktails or other drinks that complement the food.
2. Focus on the food flavors: Pay attention to how different foods taste without alcohol.
3. Create new traditions: Start pairing dishes with your favorite non-alcoholic drinks.
Remember, the goal is to enjoy the meal and the company, not the alcohol. By focusing on these aspects, you can fully participate in the holiday dining experience while maintaining your sobriety.
Step 4: Handle Social Pressure at Holiday Parties
Prepare Responses to Drink Offers
Holiday parties often come with social pressure to drink. Being ready with polite but firm responses can help you stay committed to your sobriety. Here are some effective ways to handle drink offers:
Sample Scripts for Declining Drinks
1. "Thanks, but I'm not drinking tonight. I'd love a soda instead."
2. "I appreciate the offer, but I'm the designated driver this evening."
3. "No, thank you. I'm focusing on my health right now."
4. "I'm good with my current drink, but thanks for thinking of me."
These simple, direct responses leave little room for argument. Practice these scripts or create your own before attending parties. This preparation will boost your confidence when faced with drink offers.
Handling Persistent Offers
Sometimes, people may not take your first "no" for an answer. Here's how to handle persistent offers:
1. Be firm: Repeat your initial response if needed.
2. Change the subject: Redirect the conversation to a different topic.
3. Excuse yourself: Step away to refill your non-alcoholic drink or use the restroom.
4. Explain if comfortable: If appropriate, briefly explain your sobriety journey.
Remember, you don't owe anyone an explanation for your choice not to drink. Your sobriety is your priority.
Find a Sober Buddy
Having support at holiday parties can significantly increase your chances of staying sober. A sober buddy provides moral support and helps you navigate challenging situations.
Benefits of Having Support at Parties
1. Accountability: Your buddy can help you stick to your sobriety goals.
2. Shared experience: You're not alone in facing social pressure.
3. Backup: Your buddy can help deflect unwanted drink offers.
4. Safety net: They can provide support if you feel tempted or overwhelmed.
Finding or Bringing a Sober Companion
1. Invite a sober friend: Ask someone from your support network to join you.
2. Connect with recovery groups: Many organizations host sober holiday events.
3. Use social media: Reach out to local sober communities online.
4. Bring a supportive family member: If comfortable, ask a family member to be your sober buddy.
If you can't find a sober buddy, consider setting up check-in calls with a sponsor or sober friend before and after the event.
Time Management in Recovery
Managing your time effectively during the holidays can help reduce stress and maintain your sobriety:
1. Prioritize recovery activities: Keep attending support meetings or therapy sessions.
2. Schedule self-care: Set aside time for relaxation and stress-relief activities.
3. Balance social events: Don't overcommit; it's okay to say no to some invitations.
4. Create new traditions: Start alcohol-free holiday traditions that support your recovery.
By managing your time well, you can enjoy the holidays while staying committed to your sobriety journey.
Step 5: Cope with Family Pressure to Drink
Set Clear Boundaries
Setting clear boundaries is crucial when dealing with family pressure to drink during Christmas. It's important to communicate your sobriety needs clearly and enforce these boundaries respectfully.
Communicate Your Sobriety Needs
1. Be direct and honest: Clearly state your decision to stay sober. For example, "I've decided not to drink alcohol this Christmas."
2. Explain your reasons if comfortable: Share your motivations if you feel it will help your family understand. You might say, "I'm focusing on my health and well-being this year."
3. Use "I" statements: Frame your decision in terms of personal choice. For instance, "I feel better when I don't drink" instead of "Drinking is bad."
4. Be firm but kind: Maintain a respectful tone while being clear about your stance. You could say, "I appreciate your offer, but I'm not drinking alcohol tonight."
5. Prepare for questions: Be ready to answer common questions about your sobriety. Practice responses to queries like "Just one won't hurt, right?"
For more examples of responses you can use when someone asks you why you aren’t drinking, check out this blog post.
Enforce Boundaries Respectfully
1. Stay consistent: Stick to your decision throughout the gathering. Consistency reinforces your commitment.
2. Use non-verbal cues: If someone keeps offering drinks, physically step back or turn away to signal your discomfort.
3. Enlist support: Ask a trusted family member to help deflect drink offers or change the subject if needed.
4. Redirect conversations: When pressured, change the topic to something positive about the gathering. For example, "I'm really enjoying the food. Did you try the apple pie?"
5. Have an exit strategy: Plan a polite way to leave situations where boundaries aren't respected. You might say, "I need some fresh air" or "I'm going to check on the kids."
6. Express gratitude: Thank family members who respect your boundaries. This positive reinforcement can encourage continued support.
Practice Self-Care During Family Gatherings
Family gatherings can be stressful, especially when maintaining sobriety. Practicing self-care is essential for managing this stress and staying committed to your goals.
Take Breaks When Needed
1. Plan regular breaks: Schedule short periods to step away from the gathering. This could be every hour or two.
2. Find a quiet space: Identify a calm area in the house or outside where you can retreat when needed.
3. Use the bathroom excuse: If you need a quick break, saying you need to use the restroom is a simple, no-questions-asked way to step away.
4. Take a walk: A brief walk around the block can provide a refreshing change of scenery and a chance to clear your head.
5. Call a support person: Step out to make a quick call to a sponsor or sober friend for encouragement.
Relaxation Techniques for Stressful Moments
1. Deep breathing: Practice the 4-7-8 technique. Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 7, and exhale for 8. Repeat 3-4 times.
2. Progressive muscle relaxation: Tense and then relax each muscle group in your body, starting from your toes and moving up to your head.
3. Mindfulness meditation: Focus on your breath or a specific object for 1-2 minutes to center yourself.
4. Grounding exercises: Use the 5-4-3-2-1 technique. Name 5 things you can see, 4 you can touch, 3 you can hear, 2 you can smell, and 1 you can taste.
5. Positive affirmations: Repeat a supportive phrase to yourself, such as "I am strong and capable of maintaining my sobriety."
6. Hand massage: Give yourself a quick hand massage to release tension and promote relaxation.
7. Visualization: Picture a calm, safe place in your mind for a minute or two to reduce stress.
Remember, self-care isn't selfish. It's a necessary part of maintaining your sobriety and overall well-being during potentially stressful family gatherings.
Advanced Tips for Staying Sober at Holiday Parties
Volunteer as the Designated Driver
Being the designated driver is a smart strategy for staying sober at holiday parties. It gives you a clear reason to avoid alcohol and can reduce pressure from others to drink.
How Being the Designated Driver Reduces Drinking Pressure
When you're the designated driver, you have a built-in excuse for not drinking. People are less likely to push alcohol on you when they know you're responsible for getting others home safely. Here's how to use this role effectively:
1. Announce your role early: Let people know you're the designated driver as soon as you arrive at the party.
2. Wear a visual cue: Some events provide designated driver wristbands or buttons. If not, consider bringing your own.
3. Stick to your commitment: Don't give in to "just one drink" offers. Remind others of your responsibility if needed.
4. Offer to get drinks for others: This shows you're still participating in the social aspect of the party.
Added Benefits of Being the Designated Driver
Being the designated driver does more than just keep you sober. It offers several other advantages:
1. Social responsibility: You're actively contributing to everyone's safety.
2. Respect from others: People often admire those who take on this role.
3. Clear head the next day: While others nurse hangovers, you'll wake up refreshed.
4. Potential cost savings: Some venues offer free non-alcoholic drinks to designated drivers.
Host Your Own Sober Holiday Gathering
Hosting your own sober holiday party gives you complete control over the environment and ensures an alcohol-free celebration.
Communicating the Alcohol-Free Nature of Your Party
When inviting guests, be clear about the sober nature of your event:
1. State it in the invitation: Mention that it's an alcohol-free gathering.
2. Explain the focus: Highlight the activities or theme of the party.
3. Offer alternatives: Let guests know what drinks will be available.
4. Be prepared for questions: Some guests might ask why it's alcohol-free. Have a simple, honest response ready.
Remember, hosting your own sober gathering allows you to create new traditions and show others that holiday celebrations can be enjoyable without alcohol.
And if you’re attending someone else’s gathering and need a game plan on how to answer “why aren’t you drinking?” you’ll want to check out this blog post.
Managing Holiday Stress Without Alcohol
Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools for managing stress and reducing alcohol cravings during the holiday season. These practices can help you stay present and maintain your sobriety goals.
Mindfulness Apps and Guided Meditations
There are several apps and resources available to help you incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine:
1. Headspace: Offers guided meditations specifically designed for stress reduction and addiction recovery.
2. Calm: Provides a variety of meditation sessions, including ones focused on anxiety and sleep improvement.
3. Insight Timer: Features a large library of free guided meditations, many of which address stress and cravings.
To get started, choose an app that appeals to you and commit to a daily practice of at least 10 minutes. Set a specific time each day for your meditation, such as first thing in the morning or during your lunch break.
How Mindfulness Reduces Cravings
Mindfulness practices can significantly impact your ability to manage alcohol cravings. Here's how:
1. Increased awareness: Mindfulness helps you recognize cravings as they arise, allowing you to address them consciously rather than reacting automatically.
2. Emotional regulation: Regular practice improves your ability to manage difficult emotions, reducing the likelihood of turning to alcohol for comfort.
3. Stress reduction: Mindfulness lowers overall stress levels, which can be a major trigger for alcohol use.
4. Improved decision-making: By fostering a clearer state of mind, mindfulness enhances your ability to make choices aligned with your sobriety goals. I have a great podcast episode all about decision making.
A 2023 study in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that a 10-minute guided mindfulness meditation can help deal with cravings and cope with addictions. To implement this, try setting aside 10 minutes each day, preferably at a time when you typically experience cravings. Find a quiet space, use a guided meditation focused on addiction recovery, and practice consistently.
Engage in Creative Activities
Creative activities offer a healthy outlet for stress and can provide a fulfilling alternative to alcohol during the holiday season. Engaging in crafts or projects can help occupy your mind and hands, reducing the temptation to drink.
Holiday-Themed Crafts and Projects
Consider trying these festive activities to keep yourself engaged and alcohol-free:
1. Christmas ornament making: Create personalized ornaments using materials like clay, glass balls, or fabric.
2. Gingerbread house construction: Build and decorate a gingerbread house, focusing on intricate designs and details.
3. Holiday card crafting: Design and make your own Christmas cards using techniques like stamping, painting, or collage.
4. Festive wreath creation: Assemble a wreath using natural materials like pine cones, holly, and evergreen branches.
5. Christmas cookie decorating: Bake and intricately decorate sugar cookies with royal icing and edible decorations.
To get started, choose one project that interests you most. Gather all necessary materials in advance and set aside a specific time to work on your craft. Consider inviting a sober friend to join you, making it a social activity.
Creativity as a Healthy Stress Outlet
Engaging in creative activities can be an effective way to manage holiday stress without turning to alcohol. Here's how creativity helps:
1. Mindful focus: Concentrating on a creative task can shift your attention away from stressors and cravings.
2. Emotional expression: Art and crafts provide a healthy outlet for expressing and processing emotions that might otherwise lead to drinking.
3. Sense of accomplishment: Completing a creative project boosts self-esteem and provides a natural, alcohol-free "high."
4. Stress reduction: The repetitive motions involved in many crafts can have a calming, meditative effect on the mind.
To maximize the stress-relieving benefits of creativity, try to engage in your chosen activity for at least 30 minutes to an hour each day. Create a dedicated crafting space in your home where you can easily access your materials and work on projects whenever you feel stressed or tempted to drink.
Alcohol-Free Christmas Activities for Enjoyment
Organize Outdoor Winter Activities
Winter offers many opportunities for sober fun. Outdoor activities provide natural mood boosters and help create lasting memories.
Ice Skating Adventures
Ice skating is a classic winter activity that's fun for all skill levels. Here's how to plan an ice skating outing:
1. Find a local ice rink or frozen pond (ensure it's safe for skating).
2. Gather necessary equipment: skates, warm clothes, and safety gear.
3. Invite friends or family to join you.
4. Plan for post-skating warm-up drinks like hot chocolate or herbal tea.
Ice skating engages your whole body, releasing endorphins that improve mood naturally. The physical challenge and social aspect provide a healthy alternative to drinking.
Sledding and Snow Tubing
For a more adrenaline-filled experience, try sledding or snow tubing. Follow these steps:
1. Locate a safe sledding hill in your area.
2. Bring sleds, tubes, or toboggans.
3. Wear warm, waterproof clothing.
4. Take turns racing down the hill.
5. Engage in friendly competition with timed runs or distance challenges.
The excitement and laughter from sledding create natural highs, replacing the need for alcohol-induced euphoria.
Winter Hikes and Nature Walks
Exploring nature in winter can be peaceful and invigorating. Here's how to plan a winter hike:
1. Choose a trail suitable for winter conditions.
2. Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out.
3. Dress in layers and bring appropriate gear (hiking boots, trekking poles).
4. Pack water and high-energy snacks.
5. Take time to observe winter wildlife and scenery.
Winter hikes provide a sense of accomplishment and connection with nature. The physical exertion releases endorphins, while the quiet surroundings offer a chance for reflection and stress relief.
Plan Indoor Game Nights
Indoor game nights offer a fun, social alternative to alcohol-centered gatherings. They provide entertainment and foster connections without the need for drinks.
Popular Board Games for Group Fun
Here's a list of engaging board games suitable for various group sizes:
1. Settlers of Catan (3-4 players)
2. Codenames (4+ players)
3. Ticket to Ride (2-5 players)
4. Pandemic (2-4 players)
5. Scrabble (2-4 players)
Participate in Community Service
Engaging in community service during Christmas can provide a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment, effectively replacing the desire for alcohol.
Finding Local Volunteer Opportunities
To discover volunteer options in your area:
1. Check with local charities, food banks, and homeless shelters.
2. Visit websites like VolunteerMatch.org or Idealist.org.
3. Contact religious organizations or community centers.
4. Look for special holiday-themed volunteer events.
Popular Christmas volunteer activities include:
1. Serving meals at soup kitchens
2. Organizing toy drives for underprivileged children
3. Visiting nursing homes or hospitals
4. Participating in charity runs or walks
5. Helping at animal shelters
Benefits of Helping Others During the Holidays
Volunteering offers numerous benefits that support sobriety
1. Provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment
2. Increases self-esteem and confidence
3. Offers opportunities for social connection
4. Reduces stress and negative emotions
5. Creates new, positive holiday traditions
By engaging in these alcohol-free Christmas activities, you can create joyful, memorable experiences without relying on drinking. Whether you're exploring the winter outdoors, enjoying game nights with friends, or giving back to your community, these activities offer natural ways to boost mood, foster connections, and find fulfillment during the holiday season.
Troubleshooting Common Sobriety Challenges During Christmas
Dealing with Unexpected Cravings
Cravings can strike at any time, especially during the festive season. Understanding and managing these urges is crucial for maintaining sobriety. Here are effective strategies to help you overcome sudden cravings.
Recognize and Accept Cravings
Cravings are a normal part of recovery. When you feel one coming on, acknowledge it without judgment. Remember, cravings are temporary and will pass.
Use the HALT Method
HALT stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired. Often, cravings are triggered by one of these states. Ask yourself:
1. Am I hungry? Eat a healthy snack.
2. Am I angry? Practice deep breathing or step away for a moment.
3. Am I lonely? Call a friend or your sponsor.
4. Am I tired? Take a short nap or get some rest.
To learn more about the HALT method, check out this podcast episode.
Implement Distraction Techniques
When a craving hits, shift your focus:
1. Take a brisk walk around the block
2. Listen to your favorite music
3. Play a quick game on your phone
4. Call a supportive friend
5. Engage in a hobby or craft activity
Practice Mindfulness and Grounding
Mindfulness can help you observe cravings without acting on them:
1. Focus on your breath for 5-10 deep inhales and exhales
2. Name 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste
3. Use a mindfulness app for a quick guided meditation
Seek Immediate Support
Don't hesitate to reach out when you're struggling:
1. Call your sponsor or a sober friend
2. Attend an online support group meeting
3. Use a sobriety app with community features
4. Text a crisis helpline for immediate support
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Handling Post-Holiday Blues
The period after Christmas can be challenging for those in recovery. The sudden absence of festive activities and social gatherings can lead to feelings of emptiness or sadness. Here's how to navigate this tricky time:
Understand Post-Holiday Blues
Post-holiday blues refer to short-term feelings of sadness, loneliness, and depression that individuals may experience after the holidays. This can be particularly challenging for those maintaining sobriety.
Maintain Routine and Structure
1. Stick to a regular sleep schedule
2. Continue with your daily exercise routine
3. Plan your meals and eat at consistent times
4. Keep up with your recovery meetings and check-ins
Set New Goals and Projects
1. Create a vision board for the upcoming year
2. Start a new hobby or learn a new skill
3. Plan a sober trip or outing to look forward to
4. Volunteer for a cause you care about
Practice Self-Care
1. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation
2. Spend time in nature or get some sunlight daily
3. Practice gratitude by journaling or sharing with others
4. Treat yourself to a massage or a relaxing bath
Stay Connected
1. Schedule regular check-ins with your support network
2. Join a support group or online community for those in recovery
3. Reach out to friends and family members who support your sobriety
4. Consider professional help if feelings of depression persist
Maintaining emotional balance after Christmas can be challenging due to the sudden absence of social support and the return to daily routines. By implementing these strategies, you can navigate this period more smoothly and maintain your sobriety.
Remember, if you're struggling, SAMHSA's National Helpline provides 24/7 support for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. This can be particularly helpful during the post-holiday period.
Embracing a Sober Christmas: Your Path to Joy
Staying sober during Christmas is a journey of self-discovery and strength. By planning ahead, managing triggers, and finding new ways to celebrate, you're setting yourself up for a truly memorable holiday. Remember, sobriety is a gift you give yourself and your loved ones.
Ready to make this your best Christmas yet? Start by sharing your sober goals with a trusted friend or family member. Then, pick one alcohol-free activity from our list to try tomorrow. How will you celebrate your sober success on December 26th?
Check out the Sober Powered Podcast to learn more about how alcohol affects the brain.
Sources:
LaBelle O, Hastings M, Vest N, Meeks M, Lucier K. The role of mindfulness, meditation, and peer support in recovery capital among Recovery Dharma members. J Subst Use Addict Treat. 2023;145:208939. doi:10.1016/j.josat.2022.208939. Published January 7, 2023. Accessed October 31, 2024. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9992926/