Celebrations can be complicated for those recovering from addiction, whether a birthday or the New Year. The pressure to drink and use substances is often high in social situations, and sobriety can seem impossible. But with the right strategies and support system, it is possible to stay sober during celebrations. MD M.A.T.T. offers addiction treatment services in Maryland to help you reach sobriety if you are struggling during this time of the year.
Some key strategies for getting sober during this time of year include setting realistic goals, reaching out to supportive friends and family, attending support group meetings, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By focusing on your recovery and taking care of yourself physically and mentally, you will be better able to continue your progress. Don’t hesitate to reach out to MD M.A.T.T. at 410.469.6561 if you need help with recovery. We are here to support and guide you along the way.
New Year’s Resolutions and Recovery
Starting a new year is the perfect opportunity to evaluate your life and set goals that will make positive changes. If getting sober is your goal, making New Year’s resolutions is especially important in giving you purpose and focus on day one of addiction recovery. It’s a chance to revive the hope of living a healthier, happier life free from substance use. Writing down resolutions can help maintain focus throughout the journey of getting sober and remind you why you made this important decision. Here are three tips for keeping your resolutions and sobriety.
Utilize Support Systems
A strong support system is key to maintaining sobriety, especially during times of celebration. This may include friends and family members who understand your addiction and offer positive reinforcement while attending events with you. Or you could create an online support group or join one that already exists as additional reinforcements. With a supportive network of people around you, navigating any challenges that arise while celebrating life’s joyous occasions will be easier.
Know Your Triggers
It’s important to know what triggers your cravings for drugs or alcohol so that you can plan to avoid them at all costs. Think about what could tempt you into using substances again—whether being around certain people or attending particular events—and plan alternative activities that don’t involve engaging in risky behavior. For example, if going out dancing isn’t ideal for someone recovering from addiction, then perhaps going out for dinner at a restaurant would be a better alternative activity that allows them to be social without putting their sobriety at risk.
Plan Ahead and Have Fun
The best way to stay sober during celebrations is to have fun without worrying about drinking or using drugs. Come up with meaningful and enjoyable activities so you’re not focusing on what is off-limits instead of celebrating what matters—spending quality time with friends and family. You might try something new, like learning how to make homemade ice cream or going on a nature hike together. These activities allow everyone to have fun without involving substances.
Benefits of Working on Your Recovery
Working on your recovery can be overwhelming and exhausting when getting sober, but it is also gratifying. There are numerous benefits to getting active in your recovery journey, such as:
- Improved physical and mental health
- Better relationships with friends and family members
- A Greater sense of purpose in your life
- Enhanced self-confidence and overall sense of well-being
Additionally, actively engaging in the process of getting sober gives you time to reflect upon the progress that you’ve made and celebrate how far you have come in reaching your goals. Working on your recovery involves hard work. However, as this hard work pays off daily, getting involved in your recovery journey is an incredibly valuable and worthwhile experience that brings many benefits.
Contact MD M.A.T.T. for Support and Resources for Recovery
Staying sober during celebrations doesn’t have to be hard if you plan ahead and take measures such as building a strong support system, recognizing your triggers, and finding meaningful activities that don’t involve using substances so that you can still enjoy yourself without compromising your sobriety goals this New Year. With the proper preparation and resources, you’ll find yourself better equipped than ever when faced with temptations.
MD M.A.T.T. is dedicated to helping individuals struggling with addiction. We offer a range of resources, including support groups and one-on-one counseling, to help you work on your journey toward getting sober and achieving long-term recovery success. Contact us today at 410.469.6561 to learn more about our services and how we can help you reach your goals this New Year.
