Have a Sober Holiday

The holidays can be stressful for everyone, especially if you’re managing your sobriety. Between the demands of your time, financial burdens, and holiday parties where everyone’s drinking, it can be difficult to stay focused and sober. Here are some helpful tips for staying sober throughout the holidays.

Find Meaningful Ways to Spend your Time

Giving back isn’t just an important part of the holiday season; it’s a wonderful way to support your sobriety. Plan on serving a meal at a local shelter or just helping your loved ones out around the house this holiday season.

An act of service helps you stay grounded and empathetic. By connecting with others, you exist outside of yourself and avoid focusing on the anxiety and fear that could lead you back towards addiction.

Giving back also keeps you busy and keeps your mind off substance use. So plan on giving back this holiday season to stay grounded, empathetic, busy and sober.

Some Stress is Optional

There is a lot of stress on sobriety that may be unavoidable. But there are also a lot of situations you simply don’t have to deal with or allow. Before going into the holidays, look at ways to be mindful in avoiding situations that could damage your recovery journey.

For instance, if you’ve been invited to a party and you know there’s going to be drinking or substance abuse that you’re uncomfortable with, turn it down. Your sobriety is more important and realizing that ahead of time can save you a lot of stress.

Or what about your cousin who always badgers you about rehab? Avoid them. Even if you think you can handle these sorts of situations, have an easy exit plan in case you find yourself faltering. Just because it’s the holidays doesn’t mean you owe it to anybody to torture yourself with situations that can endanger your progress. Take care of yourself and your sobriety first.

Know your Resources

The holidays can be a challenging time for those in recovery. Whether you're traveling away from your normal support group or your sponsor is busy with holiday plans, the season can sometimes leave you feeling isolated. But remember you’re never alone in your journey with sobriety.

One of the most valuable steps you can take is planning ahead. Schedule check-ins with a trusted loved one to keep you grounded or connect with a local recovery group in your holiday destination. These consistent support touchpoints can make a huge difference in maintaining your sobriety during this festive but sometimes overwhelming time of year.

For immediate assistance, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Additionally, Community Fairbanks Recovery Center is here to support you throughout the holidays. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, or simply want to learn more about treating addiction and living sober, we’re open and ready to assist you. Call us anytime at 1-800-225-4673.

This holiday season, remember that help is just a phone call away. You don’t have to face the challenges alone—Fairbanks is here to provide the resources and support you need to continue your recovery journey.