Certain times of the year can be more challenging if you are in recovery. Some holidays, such as the 4th of July, are naturally associated with alcohol consumption at BBQs and parties. This association can make it harder to avoid temptation if you want to celebrate with family and friends. The good news is that you do not have to struggle alone to have a sober 4th of July. Addiction treatment programs can provide continuing support to help you prepare a plan to enjoy a sober holiday.
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we understand that the holidays can be difficult when you are trying to stay on the path to sobriety. We want our clients to enjoy all the good things in life without fear of relapse. Our addiction treatment programs can help you get sober and stay sober for the long term. To learn more about the support we offer for lasting sobriety, give us a call today at 866.516.8356.
Planning for a Sober 4th of July
The 4th of July is notorious for BBQs, fireworks, and alcohol. If you are in recovery, just being around alcohol can put you at risk for relapse. Do you have to camp out at home for the entire 4th of July weekend with Netflix and pizza delivery? Not at all. With the right plan, you can sail through Independence Day and have a great time while staying sober. The key is in planning ahead of time.
Rather than dreading the upcoming 4th of July festivities, focus on creating a plan of action to help you enjoy a sober holiday:
Attend Events That Don’t Involve Alcohol
Choose to attend events with activities that do not revolve around alcohol. Ideally, the event would be alcohol-free, but that is not always possible. To help you avoid the temptation to drink alcohol, it is best to find fun activities to keep you occupied. Some great activities are backyard games like volleyball, horseshoes, and cornhole.
Find Non-Alcoholic Alternatives
Think outside of the box and improvise as needed. Skip the beer pong game and start up your own non-alcoholic version with iced tea or flavored seltzer.
Find an Accountability Buddy
If you have a loved one who is also refraining from alcohol, this is the perfect person to spend the 4th of July with. Whether you attend an event together or spend the day enjoying a quiet activity together like watching a movie or going out for lunch or dinner, it really helps to have a sober buddy.
Plan Your Own 4th of July Event
If you hold an event at your house, it is easier to control your environment and eliminate temptation. You may want to remind your guests that it is an alcohol-free party. Inviting others who are also in recovery can help you all have a fun Independence Day while supporting each other’s sobriety.
Try a New Activity
Instead of the usual 4th of July BBQ or party, why not go on a hike or go camping? Spending time in nature is great for your mental health and can remove you from the temptations of alcohol-infused celebrations. The 4th of July does not always need to be a rowdy occasion. Taking some time for yourself to relax and rejuvenate is always an option.
Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston Can Help
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we do not expect you to get through a sober 4th of July on sheer willpower alone. Getting support from our addiction detox programs can help make it easier to enjoy an alcohol-free holiday. With the help of addiction therapy, we can help you reframe how you view the holidays and work together to create a sober holiday plan. To get the support you deserve as you strive for lasting recovery, give us a call at 866.516.8356.
