The 4th of July is an important holiday in the United States. Summer has arrived, so people are ready to get together with friends and family to celebrate. Unfortunately, the 4th is also consistently one of the deadliest days of the year because of alcohol-fueled accidents, automotive and otherwise. Of all the drinking holidays, Independence Day rises to the top of the list over New Year’s, Christmas, and Thanksgiving.
There are many ways to enjoy a safe and sober 4th. If you are in recovery and have been through an alcohol addiction treatment program, there are many ways to enjoy the holiday while abstaining from alcohol.
If you are concerned about your drinking or that of a loved one, don’t wait. Find out about the help that is available to you. TruHealing Centers can provide answers and offer solutions in our alcohol addiction treatment program. Reach out today by calling [Direct] or using our easy online form.
Tips for a Safe and Sober 4th of July
Being social on drinking holidays like the 4th of July can be triggering for people trying to maintain hard-won sobriety. However, there are ways to avoid this scenario, or manage it, while still enjoying the day. Some of the most effective ways to stay safe and sober include:
- Reinforce your commitment to recovery by remembering your journey. You have come a long way, and are rightfully proud of your achievement. Tell yourself that one holiday cannot derail all of that. You’ve got this.
- Plan the day thoughtfully. There are other things to do to have fun besides consuming food and alcohol. Choose a sober celebration with friends and family who do not drink.
- Consider hosting your own substance-free celebration.
- Go in with a strategy. For example, if you are going to be at a gathering where there is alcohol, figure out ahead of time what you will do if you feel tempted to “just have one” (which you know is not an option).
- Stay busy at a party. Help clear away plates, replenish the coleslaw, offer to do grill duty, organize a game of tag with the kids, or otherwise become occupied in constructive, sober activities.
- Ask a friend. Take someone with you if you need support. Pick someone who understands your situation and to whom you can talk openly if you find you are struggling.
- Plan an accountability check-in with your sponsor or sobriety coach.
- Before the holiday, arrange to have someone supporting you in your recovery call or text you to touch base during the party. Knowing you’ll be accountable to this person will help you stay on track.
- Have an escape plan. Before you arrive, know what your exit strategy is, and if you are there with family or have carpooled with friends, make sure they know what it is too and are on board. You have no obligation to stay at the party if your other strategies are not working and you feel as if your recovery is in danger.
Support for Sober Living
If you previously went through a professional alcohol rehab program, reach out before the holiday to see if they have ways to support you or can offer additional strategies to add to your list. Seeking help and support is a sign of strength. Make your needs known to those who love you and a sponsor or therapist committed to your recovery.
If you feel your sobriety is threatened, or if, despite your careful planning, you have a drink—remember, a relapse is not the end of recovery. Alcohol addiction, like all chronic diseases, can have ups and downs.
Celebrate a Safe and Sober 4th of July with Help from TruHealing Centers
Reach out to TruHealing Centers if you want to refresh your commitment to sobriety, enter an outpatient program to support you through a tough time, or simply learn more about sober living strategies. Call today by calling [Direct] or reach out using our online form. Our professional, caring staff is here to help.
This year, enjoy Independence Day as a celebration of your independence from alcohol addiction.