Observed the last Monday of May, Memorial Day is a federal holiday to honor and mourn American military personnel who have died in the line of duty. Memorial Day is also widely observed as the unofficial start of summer, usually celebrated with picnics, barbecues, and parties serving up alcohol and possibly other substances. For those living a sober life, such events can be challenging, especially early in recovery. If you are concerned about maintaining your sobriety as this Memorial Day weekend approaches, reach out to Harmony Hills to learn how our alcohol addiction treatment program can help.
Holidays can often have many triggers for those in recovery. This can be especially true in the summer months when the days are longer and people tend to be more socially active. For many, alcohol is a central part of socializing, particularly on holidays like Memorial Day. Sober living can be hard, and it is important to recognize when you need help. Call 855.494.0357 to discover how Harmony Hills can help you or your loved one.
Tips for Staying Sober this Memorial Day Weekend
Whether you have yet to begin your recovery, are newly sober, or have years of sobriety, you may be thinking about how to stay sober this Memorial Day weekend. Summer social gatherings and events like barbecues, pool parties, beach days, concerts, and vacations can present challenges to staying sober because alcohol and other substances are often involved.
Sobriety is a choice you make every day. Some days are more challenging than others, but with some forethought and planning, you can make choices that will support staying sober on Memorial Day. Here are some tips to consider:
- Avoid triggers. While a gathering with friends or family who are not sober might seem fun, it can be easy to fall back into old behaviors.
- Get in touch with other people in recovery. The people you’ve met in recovery can understand what you’re going through and give you advice and support.
- Make a plan. If you are going to a party with alcohol, drive yourself, arrive early, leave early, and bring a sober companion.
- Host your own event. You can socialize with other sober people in an environment that you have control over.
- Make a backup plan. Boredom can often lead to relapse, so be sure that you have a backup plan if your original plans fall through.
- Bring your own non-alcoholic beverages. Having a beverage in hand will deter people from offering to get you a drink.
Even with the best-laid plans, staying sober can be difficult, and there will be hard days. It’s important to be kind to yourself and rely upon your sober community during difficult times. The team at Harmony Hills is here to help you with sober holiday planning. Call us at 855.494.0357 to find out more about our inclusive sober network.
Preventing Relapse This Memorial Day Weekend
Getting sober takes hard work, and it does not end after you’ve completed an alcohol addiction treatment program. Maintaining your sobriety and preventing relapse also takes hard work. At Harmony Hills, we know that having strong supports in place is crucial to your recovery. We encourage clients to take advantage of our extensive alumni network and ongoing therapy.
Among the best things to remember in your effort to stay sober and prevent relapse this Memorial Day weekend are to:
- Take your sobriety one day at a time
- Trust in and utilize your support network
- Recognize your needs and tend to them
- Recognize your triggers and avoid them
It is also key to recognize when you need help and ask for it in time. The Harmony Hills team is here every day, 24/7. If you are struggling to stay sober, call us at 855.494.0357, and we can help. Ask us about therapy options, including:
- 12-step therapy programs
- Individual therapy programs
- Family therapy programs
- Group therapy programs
- Trauma therapy programs
Unfortunately, relapse is often part of the recovery journey. If you or a loved one does relapse, it is important to seek help immediately. Call Harmony Hills at 855.494.0357.
Find the Support You Need at Harmony Hills
Staying sober can be challenging, especially on holidays, but it is possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for extra support when you need it. At Harmony Hills in Florida, members of our team of medical and clinical professionals are available every day, 24 hours. We want to help you stay sober after you leave alcohol addiction treatment. Call us at 855.494.0357 to find out how we can help.
