[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Learning to do Labor Day Sober” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Whether you are newly in recovery or have been for quite some time, the holidays are, without a doubt, a stressful time of the year. Sobriety during the holidays may even seem completely impossible at some points. How do you possibly not drink on the last weekend of the summer? Labor Day is a day for BBQ’s and beers, isn’t it? Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be if you don’t want it to be. You can have fun at a Labor Day BBQ with family and friends, without using drugs or alcohol.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Communicate with family and friends:” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Having an honest conversation with your family or close friends (that you are comfortable with) can be helpful for those in early recovery. Explaining what you need from them, in terms of support, can help make your holidays much more manageable. They will be proud of your decision to stop using drugs and alcohol. If there is certain family or friends you don’t feel comfortable with, consider creating a word that you can use to signal to your trusted family member that you feel uneasy/triggered.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Use your support system:” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Whether you use a faith-based program, Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, utilizing the support system you have created through these programs is vital in early recovery. Let them know you are worried about going home for the holidays and seeing family/friends. Reach out to them if you find yourself struggling. Communicating and utilizing your support system is vital to recovery[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Spend time with sober friends instead:” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]If you have friends who are sober, spending time with them might be more beneficial for your recovery. If you have a family obligation, ask a sober friend to come with you for extra support and accountability.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Go to a meeting:” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Going to a 12-step meeting before and/or after a family event is a great time to talk to people who understand what you’re going through. Ask for advice. Arrive early, stay late. Make sober friends![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Limit your time around triggers:” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]If your family, a specific friend group, or certain area is a huge source of anxiety for you, limit your time there. You don’t need to be at your family or friends’ holiday event all day long if you know your Aunt Jane is going to stress you out, or if your friend Mikey is always high and triggers you. You need to do what’s best for your recovery.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]If you cannot stop using, don’t wait until after the holidays. Reach out to an admissions specialist today to learn about what options are available to you, call Amatus Recovery Center’s at 833-216-3079[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]