Vacation, however, may put you in a position of experiencing triggers that aren’t part of your daily life or in places where you have limited access to your usual coping skills. It can be helpful to think ahead about what the vacation needs to look like. Keep in contact with your support network, including sponsors or recovery groups. Schedule virtual therapy sessions or calls with a sober friend if it will help you stay on track.
How to Enjoy Vacation in Sobriety
Just because you say no to a vacation now, doesn’t mean you’ll never travel again. It means you’re still building your sobriety muscles and you vacationing in recovery need more time to practice at home. It’s admirable to accept where you are at in the recovery process, and take things at your own pace. If you’re hearing these voices in your head, know that I did too. But I learned that our thoughts aren’t always true or helpful, especially when recovering from alcohol. You don’t need to test your sobriety to prove that it’s real.
Small Things to Do When You Return from Vacation
If you are traveling with children, check out some local zoos, aquariums, and amusement parks that provide entertainment for the whole family. Remember that you’ve built a network of people while in recovery to help keep you on track. Be sure to use this foundation for your recovery whenever you feel you need to.
Strategies for Overcoming Social Pressures and Triggers
Avoiding alcohol or booze does not equate to boring or missing out on life. Even if you plan ahead, you might encounter some challenges or temptations along the way. That’s why it’s important to have a backup plan if things go wrong. For instance, you can explore new places, visit museums, go hiking, take classes, volunteer, shop, dine out or do anything else that makes you happy. You can also include some activities that are specifically designed for sober people, such as yoga, meditation, art therapy, cooking classes, or workshops.
Overcoming Challenges of Staying Sober on Vacation
He specializes in research and writing about substance abuse from a scientific and social perspective. I’m in recovery myself, and have coached many others through the experience. Here are my most tried-and-true tips to help you through this stretch of the year. Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed health care provider. Always consult your health care provider before beginning any new treatment, or if you have any questions regarding your health condition. You should not disregard medical advice, or delay seeking medical advice, because of something you read on this site.
- If you’re taking time off work, fill those hours with hikes, walks, and other exercise.
- You could also make contributions to nature reserves and national parks.
- If you prefer to travel alone or with someone not sober, you can still have a sober vacation by bringing a sober buddy.
- A normal routine can help keep you focused and on track when you’re trying to have a great time in an unfamiliar environment.
- I have fun with my friends that drink and they are respectful of my choices.