Summer equals barbecues, beach days, and parties. But for people in recovery, it can be challenging, to say the least. If you’ve made up your mind about having a sober summer, you might be wondering how you can still have fun in the sun without sabotaging your sobriety. This guide will walk you through tips for staying clean while making the most of this season.
Why Choose a Sober Summer?
Opting for abstinence during summertime is more than just avoiding substances; it’s about embracing healthier living in general.
Here’s why going sober over the summer may be worth considering:
- Better Mental Clarity: Booze and drugs can cloud judgment and increase anxiety levels. Staying abstinent ensures that each moment is lived with complete mental clarity.
- Physical Health: Free from the strain of chemicals, your body can heal itself back into shape, enabling you to participate in more physical activities.
- Genuine Connection: Interact sincerely so that memories created are everlasting with loved ones.
Current Statistics on Sobriety and Summer
Getting familiar with drug use and recovery statistics could serve as motivation when all else fails. Consider these numbers:
- According to SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration), there were 19.3 million Americans aged 18 or older who had substance use disorder in 2020.
- Binge drinking incidents rise during hot months, states NIAAA (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism).
Such figures underscore the need for sobriety maintenance even when things seem harsh.
Science-Backed Benefits of Living Sober
A growing evidence base shows the positives of giving up substances. Below are just three examples:
- Sharper Thinking Skills: Research demonstrates that extended periods without drugs can improve problem-solving abilities and memory.
- Improved Sleep Quality: A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that people who stopped drinking had more restful sleep.
- Enhanced Emotional Wellbeing: It seems when someone stops getting high, they also stop feeling low because being clean appears to be linked with reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, thus promoting sound mental health.
Planning a Sober Summer: Tips & Tricks
Keep Moving
One way to keep cravings from taking hold is by staying busy. Here are some suggestions:
- Do Outdoorsy Stuff: Go hiking, cycling, or simply take walks in natural surroundings -it’s revitalizing.
- Water Sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming are fun and good for the body.
- Creative Passions: Try photography, painting, or one of those crafts that lets you express yourself artistically.
Host an Event That Doesn’t Revolve Around Alcohol
If parties are your downfall, then host your own alcohol-free gathering. Here’s how:
- Mocktail Parties: Serve yummy non-alcoholic drinks; many mocktail recipes are on sites like Pinterest.
- Game Nights: Set up board games or quiz nights emphasizing laughing together.
- Potlucks: Encourage guests to bring their signature dish–this creates community spirit & involvement.
Rely On Support
Don’t be scared to reach out—friends, family, and fellowships are all there for this reason. Having a strong support system is key to staying sober.
- Meetings: Attend AA or NA meetings; the more meetings you attend, the better your chance of staying clean.
- Counseling: Consider CBT, DBT, or individual therapy sessions, which may help with emotional triggers.
Alcohol-Free Ways To Have Fun This Summer
You don’t need booze to have a good time. Check these out:
Support Sober Festivals and Events
Many communities hold alcohol-free events, from music festivals to outdoor movie nights; check local listings or join online groups dedicated to hosting such gatherings.
Discover Natural World
The natural world is very good at revitalizing the spirit. Arrange visits to national parks, botanical gardens, or nearby trails.
Travel Without Drinking Alcohol
It is not necessary to drink alcohol while traveling. Identify places that are famous for their yoga centers, cultural experiences, and wellness retreats.
Traveling sober allows one to engage fully with new environments and experiences.
Practice Being Present
Find ways to be present in your everyday life; let this be part of you. Activities such as yoga, meditation, and journaling can help people stay rooted in their journey towards sobriety.
Embark on a Sober Summer with Southern Sky Recovery
At Southern Sky Recovery, we know how hard it is to remain clean during the summer months because we have been there ourselves. Our family-centered treatment facilities offer various levels of care, including Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), and outpatient care.
We are committed to ensuring that our clients are well taken care of throughout their journey to recovery. We offer comprehensive therapies, such as medication-assisted treatment (MAT), intervention services, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to adequately meet each client’s needs during their time with us. Contact Southern Sky Recovery for more details on how to begin living a clean life today!
