Dave & Jill in Shadow

I am in complete denial that this is the Tuesday before Thanksgiving!  I keep thinking this year is going to slow down at some point, but it isn’t…

The holidays are really tough for those of us in recovery.  For most of us, getting together with family was a great excuse to drink and let loose.  For others, not being with family and feeling lonely would bring on the great desire to drink.  Let’s face it — those of us who are alcoholics have never needed much of an excuse to drink, but the holidays seem to be an extra-tough time when it comes to staying sober.

That all brings up the question, what do you do to stay sober around the holidays?

I am blessed living in the area that I live in, because there are a few different Thanksgiving Alka-thons that are being held nearby.  In earlier years, just knowing there was an alka-thon going on, was enough to keep me sober.  There is a wonderful atmosphere at those events, too, because it’s a sigh of relief for anyone who has to spend time with family that is actively drinking.  It’s a relief to walk into the church basement (where most of these are held) and know that no one is going to try to twist your arm to get you to drink.  Alcohol isn’t a part of our get togethers and that is a very safe feeling.

Here’s something to consider: you don’t HAVE to go visit family.  I know that sounds like a rebellious option but really, will anyone be so upset that you don’t show up that they do something drastic?  What could be so drastic — maybe they won’t invite you next year?  That doesn’t sound like a total loss to me. 

If you feel you MUST go to a family gathering that may put you at risk to accept a drink, be smart, bring a friend with you, who is also sober.  Whenever two or more of you…  You know the rest.  There is strength in numbers. 

If you find you have to do this solo, then make sure you have your own transportation and don’t think twice about bowing out early!  At one time you may have held the honor of being the last-to-leave any function, but times have changed and there is nothing that says you can’t scoot out early, before the heavy drinking starts.  And let’s face it, you know the heavy drinking is coming…protect yourself and get out of there before you’re stuck listening to Uncle Harrold and his tales of bowel obstructions, that MAKE you want to drink!

One thing that you should always do, not just during the holidays, is to keep your cell phone with you.  If you need to call your sponsor or another program friend, you’ll have it with you.  If you need to get a fake call to explain your early exit, that will work, too. 

There are a lot of things that you can keep in mind when trying to stay sober during the holidays.  I hope you have enjoyed the few I highlighted today: Hit an alka-thon, choose not to visit family, bring a buddy or at least, bring your phone!  Stay sober.  Stay safe.  Enjoy the holidays this year.

Be well.