Navigating Summer Sober
An author and recovery expert shares 7 tips to guide your journey
It’s no surprise that summer can bring with it not just fun in the sun, but also challenges and triggers. As a woman in addiction, mental health, and trauma recovery, along with an author and addiction recovery expert, I’ve learned some evidence-based strategies that I’d love to share with you to help support your summer.
If you are going to navigate summer in the sober lane or are curious about how to stay healthy, let’s dive into some creative and proven ways to make your summer both memorable and healthy.
Have a Game Plan: Before stepping out to summer shindigs, sketch out your strategy. Tag-team with a trustworthy pal, design a quick getaway blueprint, and don’t hesitate to duck out early if the vibes are off. A well-thought-out plan is your first line of defense!
Find Your Tribe: We aren’t alone, even if our minds tell us otherwise. There are countless of us who are mindful that triggers and temptations exist. Connect with other like-minded folks and join together. Invite healthy people to do summer sober together. We are stronger in community.
Avoid Temptations and Risky Situations: Let’s face it, there are tough things about summer when our recovery might be challenged. Not going to the thing. Leaving early. Avoiding risky situations altogether can ensure that we stay healthy this summer!
Cultivate New Routines: Swap old habits for exhilarating new ones. Pedal through park trails, splash around in the pool, or start your day with a serene stroll or meditative moment. Habits can be tough to break, it’s true, but when we consistently show up with new and healthier habits, we build new patterns into our lives.
Go Digital: Tap into technology. Apps galore can help you connect and stay on track. Check out innovative tools like Sober App or dive into communities via Substack. Find your digital groove and lean into it.
Host a Sober Soirée: Rally your recovery pals and craft new summer memories. Who says sober can’t be fun? Host your own events and revel in the joy of shared sober experiences.
Celebrate Every Milestone: Mark your progress and toast your triumphs. Small victories or big, each one deserves a cheer. Gather your closest friends for a recovery celebration, and don’t forget to share your stories of summer success with trusted friends and recovery support. We are here, cheering you on, eager to celebrate each step of your journey.
This summer, embrace your path with heart, creativity, and a solid plan.
Your turn!
We’d love for you to share in the comments:
How do you have fun in the sun in recovery?
What are some helpful sobriety tips that get you through triggering situations?
What guidance do you have for anyone new to recovery this summer?
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Love these tips, Caroline! And it’s so nice just knowing we’re not alone when choosing not to drink this summer.
Great tips. I have another tip- plan something for the next morning when you’re not hungover. Have something to look forward to in the morning - it’s such a lovely feeling getting up and enjoying a summer’s morning clear- headed. X