Planning your first trip after you’ve achieved sobriety can be overwhelming, but enjoying a vacation during recovery is possible. You are much more likely to surrender to temptation if you feel stressed, tired, hungry, or otherwise uncomfortable. Make sure you’re giving yourself the care you need to stay in a good mood and keep your body happy. You may also want to research the local cuisine and specialties.
Establishing Check-In Protocols
WFS offers phone support, an online community, and a private peer-to-peer support group called “New Life Connection” on Facebook. Instead of centering vacation experiences around nightclubs and hotel bars, individuals can focus on exploring the wonders of travel. This shift in focus opens up a world of possibilities and allows individuals to make the most of their vacation time without the negative consequences of substance use. Ultimately, the key to vacationing while sober is to remember that your recovery can (and should) always come first. In the beginning, this sounded like a penalty for drinking too much.
- Loved ones can play a critical role in helping a person stay sober.
- Instead of planning your holiday around events or locations that may involve drinking, consider opting for destinations and activities that align with sobriety.
- On the other hand, some people aren’t the right travel companions for me, and that’s okay!
- It’s important to ask yourself if you feel ready to go on a sober vacation before committing to any travel.
- Our hope is merely to capture the spirit of the fellowships, and to approach people with the language they commonly use to describe the disease of addiction.
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By actively utilizing your support system, you can navigate the challenges of staying sober on vacation. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and there are always resources available to help you maintain your sobriety. Before traveling, research the local recovery scene at your destination.
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If that means you need to find a 12-step program to attend one night during your stay, make it happen. Keeping up a routine can help you stay focused on your recovery, even while you’re having a good time on vacation. If you wish to contact a specific medical detox center then find a specific treatment center using our addiction treatment locator tool.
Overcoming Challenges of Staying Sober on Vacation
Remember that heavy drinking can be dangerous, even for people with no addiction disorders. Shifting to alcohol-free celebrations can improve the health of your entire family and protect against accidents. Sober celebrations also provide recovering family members with a safe, supportive environment. Keep in mind that the holidays can be stressful for anyone.7 Family events sometimes involve arguments, intrusive questions, or social pressure.
Communication and Setting Boundaries
Practicing gratitude involves recognizing and appreciating the positive aspects of your life while on the trip. This mindset can shift your focus from what you’re missing to what you have. It’s normal to feel a pang of nostalgia when you see others enjoying a drink. You might miss the days when drinking seemed to enhance celebrations.
My Loved One Needs Help
You can also ask the reception desk to suggest activities and spots you can tour without coming into contact with alcohol and other drugs. If you often fall victim to peer pressure, pick travel companions who can keep you accountable. Going on vacation with a romantic partner, parents or friends who understand the importance of your recovery can help you remain sober during your trip.
Using Mindfulness Techniques to Stay Grounded and Enjoy Your Trip
When traveling with others, it is important to communicate your sobriety goals and establish clear boundaries. Openly discussing your needs and expectations with your travel companions can help create a supportive environment and minimize potential temptations. It is essential to have a community group check in on you throughout the trip, ask specific questions upon vacationing in recovery returning, and be aware of situations that may tempt you on the road 5. Developing accountability friendships can provide invaluable support while traveling. By adding trusted individuals to your contacts list, you have someone to reach out to for support when facing temptations or challenging situations.