5 Tips to Survive Memorial Day Sober

Memorial Day is the kick-off to summer – and it’s also a prelude to the upcoming season of BBQs, bonfires, beach parties, outdoor concerts and festivals, and most often, alcohol. It’s easy to get nostalgic for those party days, or to feel like you’ll need to lock yourself inside to stay sober. But you don’t. You can still have fun and be sober – it just may take a little planning! Start with these tips. 

1. Identify your triggers ahead of time. It goes without saying that you need to be aware of your personal triggers – and to have a plan in place to avoid relapse. Especially if you’re brand-new to sobriety, your best bet may be to skip alcohol-filled BBQs or concerts this Memorial Day. Or, bring a sober friend along and make sure your sponsor is just a call or text away. 

2. Keep your glass filled—with water. Whether plain or sparkling or with a wedge of lemon or lime for flavor, good old H2O can help you beat the heat and keep cravings at bay. Plus, having a non-alcoholic beverage in your hand can help prevent any awkward questions about why you’re not drinking. 

3. Keep active. Start the long weekend with a good sweat session. It will help you feeling stronger and increase your confidence in staying clean and sober. Plus, exercise can give you a natural high to replace the artificial ones you may be craving.

4. Have an exit strategy. For example, you may ask a trusted friend to call you at a specific time to see how things are going, or tell the host ahead of time that you may have plans later. Knowing what you’re going to say ahead of time will help minimize the stress if you feel the need to flea the scene.

5. Create a brief gratitude list – and put it in your pocket. This can serve as a simple reminder about all you’ve achieved in your recovery and how grateful you are to be sober and alive! 

Making Better Choices Year-Round

Learning to make better choices is a key element of the young adult recovery program at Hope Academy. Our clients, ages 18-26, receive clinical treatment as well as one on one coaching in healthy nutrition, exercise, relaxation, and coping skills. Armed with this knowledge, they are able to recognize and manage their addiction triggers and cravings, and make healthier life choices. To find out more, call today: 866-930-4673.