If you are recovering from drug or alcohol addiction, one night of letting your guard down can derail your recovery efforts. That night could be New Year’s Eve, the biggest party night of the year. However, with a little planning and some creativity, you can have a sober new year with no regrets. You can also enjoy the evening with others who support your sobriety and will not bring you down.
The guiding principle behind sober living during holidays such as New Year’s Eve is taking control of your life and not letting any person or situation trigger a relapse. Instead of following others around all evening, plan the night out and decide where you will go and who you will spend time with. Better yet, you may want to host an event and stay home.
Tips for Enjoying a Sober New Year
Meet with Your Therapist
If you completed your therapy at an addiction treatment center, you might want to schedule a session with your therapist a day or two before New Year’s Eve. You can get some valuable tips on how to stay sober. You can also undergo a quick head check to determine your state of mind and mental health. Your therapist can review what you learned in treatment and give you some additional tools that reinforce your recovery goals.
Go to a Support Group Meeting
Your group therapy program played a key role in your addiction recovery. New Year’s Eve is the perfect time to connect with your support group. Even if you don’t plan to attend a group meeting that evening, you may want to find a support group that you can attend earlier in the day. Remember, support groups meet all day and night on New Year’s Eve. Drop by if you are feeling tempted to drink or take drugs.
Host Your Own Party
You have already proven that you can have fun without drinking. Now it’s time to have fun with others. Throw a blow-out party this year and invite everybody. Come up with creative ideas such as a dance party, a video game tournament, or a movie marathon. Make unique dishes or have your party catered. Turn the music up and create a memorable event that your hosts won’t regret the next morning.
Plan a Party at Your Sober Living House
Are you transitioning into a sober living house? If so, you can still celebrate New Year’s Eve. Grab some of the other house residents and plan a party. Everybody can chip in to buy food and party favors. Celebrate your sobriety with others who are also on the path to recovery. What else is there to celebrate that could be any better?
Take a Road Trip
Take a few days off, grab a partner or your family, and hit the road on New Year’s Eve. Go camping, hiking, or head south to the beach. You may want to take this time to find some national monuments or even visit a few museums. There are endless opportunities to get out of town and disconnect from your triggers.
Make Your Own Mocktails
Who says that non-alcoholic drinks can’t be delicious? Mocktails can be every bit as stimulating as alcoholic drinks, but without hurting your body. Try popular mocktails such as the Mango Mule, Citrus Fizz, or Shirley Ginger. Dozens of recipes will wow your guests while providing your body with nutrients.
Celebrate a Sober New Year with Sunflower Wellness Retreat
Start your New Year’s resolution early this year by getting help for addiction. Sunflower Wellness Retreat offers a comprehensive drug addiction treatment program that can help you get clean and stay clean. Contact Sunflower Wellness Retreat today by calling 855.730.8825 or completing our secure online form to find out more about your addiction recovery options. We can help you celebrate a sober New Year.
