We all look forward to the summertime. When the days are long, the nights are warm, and people gather to celebrate. Families take summer vacations, and the weekends are spent alongside the barbecue. However, those late-night parties and long weekend trips often include alcohol as everyone chats and laughs. For anyone recovering from alcohol addiction, these activities may be challenging and even overwhelming, testing your will and threatening your sobriety. As you look around, you may even notice signs of alcohol misuse in your friends and family that you may not have recognized before when you were in the throes of alcoholism.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, summertime fun can also bring about many risks for those new to sobriety. With summer vacations and weekend getaways just around the corner, you may be wondering what types of activities you can do that do not jeopardize your sobriety. Planning ahead is just one way that you can enjoy the summer while still following your sober lifestyle. Through evidence-based treatment options and group therapy programs, you can be well on your way to living the life that you want.
Surround Yourself with Sober Friends
Sober living is much easier if you can surround yourself with others living a sober lifestyle. As so many activities and events revolve around alcohol and such a huge part of society, finding a supportive group of sober friends is important to long-term sobriety. Although it may seem difficult to change your friend groups or find a new support system, there are several ways for you to expand your sober living social group, including:
- Sober friends. Step out of your comfort zone and try a new activity to meet other people who may share similar sobriety goals.
- Stay connected to your addiction counselor. When those cravings come, or the temptations become too much, reach out for the support of a trusted advisor or counselor to keep you on the path.
- Continue outpatient treatment sessions. You can learn and continue to develop coping skills when you are put in those challenging situations.
Going back to your previous lifestyle of parties and activities where alcohol is involved may not be conducive to living a life of sobriety. Get started this summer with some summer vacation ideas and tips to enjoy and help you stay on track in recovery.
Summer Vacation Tips for Sober Living
If alcohol was a significant part of your life before getting sober, you might think you cannot enjoy your summer vacation without alcohol. While it is a reality that many activities and getaways include imbibing by the pool or drinking late into the night, it is possible to have fun on vacation without it.
Here are some summer vacation tips to enjoy on your own or with loved ones:
- Hiking. This is a great sober activity to be done with friends or family or alone. The added benefits of fresh air, sunshine, and exercise are a great boost for your overall mental and physical health.
- Go to a local park for a picnic or barbecue. Bring along your favorite non-alcoholic drinks such as flavored water, seltzer, and lemonade.
- Take a sightseeing tour. Go on a whale watching, dolphin watching, or sightseeing cruise.
- Visit museums and aquariums. This is not only a great sober activity but a great way to experience new things and meet new people.
- Peruse through a farmers market. Without alcohol in your life, it is easier to get up early and enjoy the local market.
- Seek out a food truck festival. Many food truck festivals not only offer a great sampling of cuisines, but many provide live music, a great way to enjoy a summer evening or getaway.
- Celebrate the summer with an ice cream happy hour. Create your own ice cream party with various sweet treats or meet up at a local ice cream shop and enjoy.
- Relax at the beach. There is nothing better than a relaxing day at the beach. Enjoy the summer sun with a good book. Be sure to bring plenty of water to quench your thirst and avoid temptation.
- Get a thrill at an amusement park. With the excitement of the rides and attractions, you will not have time to be tempted or feel the draw of alcohol. It is also a great way to make sober memories with your loved ones.
- Take a road trip. The world is a big and exciting place. Use this time to explore your state, experience a new culture, drive through a part of the country, visit a big city.
Temptations can rear their ugly head no matter where you are or how you choose to vacation this summer. Being prepared and planning ahead can help you to enjoy your summer vacation plans.
Learn More About Sober Living Options Through Treatment Connection
Having fun on vacation without alcohol is possible. To get started on the road to recovery and enjoy all that life has to offer in sobriety, use Treatment Connection’s online portal to find the best treatment options to suit your needs.
