How to Stay Sober During the Holidays: 12 Days of Sober Holiday Tips for a Joyful Season
Whether or not you celebrate Christmas, the holidays can be tough. Between the office parties, family gatherings, and endless social media posts of festive cheer (always with a drink in hand, of course), it can feel like you’re constantly walking into temptation. The good news? You don’t have to go through it alone. If you’re in recovery, this time of year can feel overwhelming, but with a little planning and support (like the kind you can get from Affect’s app!), you can have a great sober holiday.
If you’re wondering how to stay sober during the holidays, we’re breaking down the 12 Days of Christmas into 12 sober holiday tips to help you make it through the season in one piece — because whether you’re celebrating Christmas or just getting through the hustle and bustle of the season, these tips will keep your sobriety strong and your spirits high. 🎄
On the First Day of the Sober Holidays: Set Your Sober Goals
To have a sober holiday, kick off the season by setting clear goals. What do you want to accomplish this holiday season? Whether it’s staying sober at your family gathering or saying no to that one party invite, set a goal and track your progress with Affect’s app. You’ll feel that sense of accomplishment and motivation every time you hit a milestone! Think of that sober tracker as an advent calendar with a new treat every day!
On the Second Day of the Sober Holidays: Practice Gratitude
Take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for—big or small. Gratitude can help you keep a positive mindset, even when things get stressful. Plus, a positive outlook is one of the best tools for maintaining sobriety! Our app prompts you to reflect on your gratitudes every day, it changes the way you see the world and the habit makes you feel better!
On the Third Day of the Sober Holidays: Find Your Sober Tribe
Surround yourself with a sober support network. Whether it’s family, friends, or a group therapy session through Affect’s app, community matters. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and reaching out to others can provide the encouragement you need. Affect’s program has a private and secure online community that’s always on. You can chat with people who get it any time!
On the Fourth Day of the Sober Holidays: Have an Exit Plan
Know when it’s time to step away. If you’re at a party or event that’s making you uncomfortable, having a plan to leave early can help you avoid temptation. Whether it’s a quick excuse or having your ride already lined up, an exit strategy is key. Just don’t try to go up the chimney.
On the Fifth Day of the Sober Holidays: Avoid Triggers
Be aware of situations that might trigger cravings—whether it’s certain people, places, or smells. Having a plan in place to navigate these situations will keep you feeling in control and confident. Stay away from the ones who laugh and call you names, don’t play their reindeer games!
On the Sixth Day of the Sober Holidays: Keep Busy with Hobbies
Find activities that keep you engaged and distracted. Whether it’s a winter hike, baking cookies, or starting a new hobby, staying busy can prevent you from focusing on things that could jeopardize your sobriety. Did you know that an average craving only lasts about 20 minutes? Redirect your mind and attention and get in the zone and you’ll forget all about it!
On the Seventh Day of the Sober Holidays: Be Kind to Yourself
The holidays can be tough, and it’s okay to not be perfect. If you slip up, don’t beat yourself up. Recovery is a journey, and showing yourself kindness is crucial for maintaining long-term sobriety. Just drinking or using less over the month is a huge win. It happens one day at a time, and tomorrow is another day with a fresh start.
8. On the Eighth Day of the Sober Holidays: Keep Alcohol-Free Drinks Handy
When you’re at a gathering, have a non-alcoholic drink in hand. It’s a great way to keep from feeling out of place. Whether it’s sparkling water, a fancy mocktail, or just a cup of tea, it’ll help you stick to your sobriety. There are a ton of non alcoholic beverages out there now to try, the number of non-alcoholic spirits and beers has taken off like a rocket lately!
9. On the Ninth Day of the Sober Holidays: Stay Mindful of Stress
Stress can be a major trigger, and we all know how stressful the holidays get. Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, to keep your mind and body calm. And don’t forget—Affect’s app has mindfulness exercises that can help.
10. On the Tenth Day of the Sober Holidays: Reward Yourself
Celebrate your victories! Whether you’ve made it through a tough holiday event or stuck to your sobriety goals, treat yourself to something special. At Affect, we believe in rewarding yourself through contingency management, so use that to stay motivated! The gifts just keep on giving!
11. On the Eleventh Day of the Sober Holidays: Stay Active
Physical activity is one of the best ways to keep your body and mind healthy. Go for a walk, try some holiday yoga, or get outside and get moving (bundle up if it’s cold where you are!). Staying active will boost your mood and help you fight cravings. We’re big on neuroscience here at Affect and it’s proven that sunshine and fresh air generate even more dopamine when you’re getting endorphins from moving – the feel good chemicals that drugs and alcohol have disrupted. Want to learn more about this all works? There’s more information in the app, and it’s fascinating!
12. On the Twelfth Day of the Sober Holidays: Stay Connected to Your App
And on the twelfth day of the holiday season, my true love gave to me… the gift of recovery—strength, support, and the courage to enjoy a sober, joyful season! Use Affect’s app daily to check in with your goals, track your progress, and join group therapy sessions for support. The app’s tools and community can help you stay focused on your sobriety every day of the year. You’re making new habits, and habits are formed with little actions every day.
Wrapping it up:
You’ve made it through all 12 days of sober holiday tips! Remember, staying sober during the holidays doesn’t have to feel like a battle. With a solid plan, a little humor, and some support, you can handle anything that comes your way. If you ever need extra help, Affect’s app is always there for you.
Stay strong, and enjoy the season—on your terms! We’re with you all the way, just like a personal partridge your own pear tree! 🦜
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