Concerned About Upcoming Engagements on the Fourth?
Here are a few tips for enjoying a sober 4th of July.
1. Go to a Morning Meeting
Going to a recovery meeting before any festivities begin is a good way to start the day off strong. The support and fellowship you draw from the morning meeting will stay with you throughout the rest of the day when things get more chaotic.
2. Celebrate with People who Support Your Recovery
People who understand and support your recovery are a lot less likely to participate in triggering activities in front of you. They might even abstain from any substances as well. But even if they do decide to drink, friends who understand how important your recovery is will not force, guilt, or shame you into drinking or using.
3. Focus on the Food for a Sober 4th
Is there really any better holiday to master your BBQ skills? Many people also go all out with red, white, and blue Rice Krispy treats, summer salads, and fun Chex mixes. It’ll be much easier to pass up the alcohol or using if you have good, fun food to look forward to.
4. Drive Yourself
Wherever you decide to go, make sure you drive yourself. Having your own car ensures you have a getaway vehicle available and won’t have to wait for anyone else to sober up or want to leave. You’re on your own time.
5. Have an Escape Plan
It’s always a good idea to have an escape plan just in case things get too stressful or triggering. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate. You can say you aren’t feeling well or you have another engagement to get to. You might even want to consider asking a friend to accompany you if you do decide to leave so that you don’t have to spend the rest of the day alone.
6. Throw Your Own Sober Party
Chances are a lot of your recovery friends are stressing about staying sober amongst all the crazy Fourth of July parties. Throwing your own party not only gives them a safe place to celebrate, but it also gives you control over how the day goes.
7. Make sure your sponsor or a sober friend will be “on call”
Keep your cell phone charged and make sure you have several people’s phone numbers saved in your phone should you need to call someone for help.
8. Don’t Suffer Silently
Even with all of these tips and all of the sober celebrations out there, sometimes our strength still falters. It happens to everyone. If you’re having a bad time or feeling too triggered, don’t be afraid to speak up. Call your sponsor, text a supportive friend, or go to a meeting. They’ll help you remember why you chose sobriety in the first place.
Just because you’re sober doesn’t mean you have to stop having fun. Fourth of July can still be an exciting and eventful day without alcohol. Staying sober also means that you can truly celebrate and appreciate what the Fourth of July is all about with a clear mind.
Kolmac wishes you all a Happy Sober 4th!
Contact us to learn more about how to stay sober.