Tips for Staying Sober This Summer

If you are battling an alcohol addiction, you understand the constant challenges of sobriety, especially at different times of the year. Summer can be particularly difficult, with vacations, weddings, and summer gatherings all providing temptations that could threaten your progress.

Staying sober this summer, though it may be tough, can help you avoid relapses in your recovery. From being mindful of the invitations you accept to having a plan if temptation comes knocking, there are many things you can do to make it through. Below, we share our best tips to help you enjoy a sober summer. 

Develop a Plan

Developing a plan will help you feel in control, anticipate potential challenges, and make decisions in your best interest. 

First, identify the potential triggers and challenges you could face over the coming months. Perhaps you’re going on vacation and will be in an unfamiliar environment, opening opportunities for relaxation or thrill-seeking. Maybe your routine will change with the turn of the season, leaving you with more downtime than you usually have. It’s helpful to consider what challenges could lie ahead and how you will handle them.

Secondly, create a plan for different social situations. Think about how you’ll say no to invitations or offers of alcohol and what your exit strategies will be. These measures will help you avoid having to think on your feet so you can feel confident in different social situations.

Determine who you will reach out to if needed. Whether it’s your counselor or a trusted loved one, knowing there is someone you can turn to if you’re struggling will give you peace of mind.

Avoid Temptations

One of the best things you can do to help you stay sober this summer is to limit your alcohol exposure as much as possible. Doing so may mean declining invitations to events centered around drinking, at least for now.

Before you decide to attend an event, ask yourself the following questions:

• Why do I want to attend this event? Consider whether you genuinely want to attend the gathering or feel pressured to go.
• What is the nature of the event? Think about whether the event will center around drinking or if there will be other activities for you to participate in.
• Who will be there? It’s important to be around supportive people, including friends and family who are aware of your situation and won’t pressure you into drinking.
• How will I resist peer pressure? Decide how you will decline invitations to drink. 
• How long will I stay? Having boundaries is the best way to avoid risky situations. You might give yourself a curfew or a set of conditions to adhere to. For example, if people start taking shots, that can be a cue for you to leave. Having an exit plan will help you act if you begin to feel uncomfortable or tempted.
• How will I take care of myself before and after the event? Determine what you will do to show yourself love and care surrounding this event. You may want to attend a meeting in preparation or debrief your feelings via journaling or therapy afterward. Consider what you can do to support your mental health.

Avoiding the event entirely will be your best action plan in many circumstances. Planning alternative activities will keep you busy and show you how to have fun this summer without drinking.

Stay Connected to Your Support Network

Your support network is there for you to lean on, so be sure to check in regularly during the summer–especially if you’re going on vacation. You may want to attend additional meetings or therapy sessions to help you stay on track and reassure you.

It’s okay to communicate openly with your friends and family and ask for their support this summer. Sharing your feelings and struggles can help them be more accommodating and strengthen your bond.

Participate in Sober Activities

Not all activities and events have to revolve around drinking. There are a ton of amazing sober activities you can do in Southern California that will help you enjoy a fantastic summer. Here are our ten recommendations that you can do solo or with a group:

1. Spend time at the beach: California is home to some of the world’s best beaches, so schedule some time to have fun in the sun.
2. Go hiking: Hiking in the mountains, canyons, and hills is the perfect summer activity. It will benefit your mental health and help improve your fitness, too.
3. Head to an amusement park: Some of the most famous amusement parks in the world are found in California. Visit Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, or Knott’s Berry Farm for a day of thrills and excitement.
4. Explore botanical gardens: Botanical gardens are fascinating and wonderful to explore in the summer when many of the plants and flowers are in full bloom.
5. Participate in outdoor sports: Try different outdoor activities, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and surfing.
6. Take a boat trip: A day at sea makes for incredible memories. Go whale watching or look for dolphins.
7. Camp: Summer is the perfect time to go camping in California. Book a reservation at a popular location like Leo Carrillo State Park.
8. Have a picnic in the park: Enjoy good food and good company with a picnic at a park. To pass the time, take a craft or some games you can play with loved ones.
9. Go sightseeing: Explore the best your city has to offer, including museums, walking tours, and more. Being a tourist for the day in your hometown can be a lot of fun.
10. Enjoy summer blockbusters: Head to the movie theater to enjoy some of this summer’s biggest movies.

Celebrate Your Progress

While it can be challenging to occupy yourself with sober activities, it’s important to celebrate your progress and reward yourself for your achievements. Allow yourself a meaningful treat or experience to help you make the most of your summer.

Sobriety Support in San Diego

Summer can be a difficult time for those with an alcohol addiction, as changing schedules and unusual events can throw off your routine. However, you can still maintain your progress despite these temporary fluctuations. For additional support with sobriety this summer, contact Jackson House Recovery Centers. We’re here to help.