10 Tips for Staying Sober During the Holidays

During the holidays, it feels like every way you turn someone is offering you a drink. People are partying, and for many people that means drinking. Add to that the stress or anxiety associated with family gatherings and it can be a minefield for someone trying to stay sober. Here are some tips for maintaining your sobriety and a good mood during holiday season.

1. Know About Local Meetings - If you’ll be traveling, find a local meeting you can join during your stay away from home.
2. Enlist Support from Family and Friends - Make sure those you’ll be seeing know how important it is for you to stay sober. Not everyone will be helpful, but just a few allies can make a world of difference.
3. Enlist the Support of People You Can Call - Sometimes you just need to talk to someone who understands. Make a list of people who you can call on during those moments.
4. Plan for Physical Activity - Get regular exercise, even if it’s just long walks each day.
5. Avoid Former Haunts - Don’t go back to favored drinking establishments.
6. Create a New Tradition - Instead of making punch, bring a puzzle or board game. Come up with an activity outside the house that can be a regular activity in the future.
7. Plan Your Days - Make a plan for each day so you know you’ll stay busy.
8. Avoid the Blues with a Gratitude List - Don’t be shy about writing a gratitude list every day.
9. Stay Satisfied - Avoid being hungry, angry, lonely, or tired (HALT). Get a snack or meal, talk to someone you trust, and sleep enough.
10. Be in the Moment - Yesterday is over, tomorrow is yet to come. Do your best today and figure out what you can get out of this moment in order to be happy.

Enjoy your sobriety - you’ve earned it.