At Mount Sinai Wellness Center, we understand the challenges that come with maintaining sobriety, especially during the summer months, when social gatherings become more frequent and often involve more alcohol than usual. However, we also believe that it’s entirely possible to have a fantastic, fun-filled summer while remaining sober. We have put together a guide to help you enjoy your summer while maintaining your sobriety. Keep reading to learn more and utilize these tools and activities.
Embrace Outdoor Activities
Summer is the perfect time to explore outdoor activities. Fresh air and physical activity not only boost your mood but also help in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Consider hiking, swimming, biking, or even taking up a new sport like beach volleyball. Not only will staying active and engaged reduce the potential for boredom, but several studies have shown that exercise can help to conquer addiction.
Plan Sober Get-Togethers
Just because you’re sober doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy social events. Plan your own sober get-togethers like picnics, barbecues, or game nights. This way, you control the environment and ensure it supports your sobriety.
Find New Refreshments
Alcohol might be a common summer refreshment, but it’s far from the only option. Try out different non-alcoholic cocktails, or “mocktails,” and discover new favorite drinks. Fresh fruit juices, iced teas, and sparkling water can be just as refreshing and satisfying.
As more and more people begin to explore sober lifestyles, there has been an influx of mocktail options in the market as well as the introduction of alcohol-free bars.
Join a Support Group
If you haven’t already, consider joining a support group. Connecting with others who are also committed to sobriety can provide an immense source of comfort and understanding. Many groups organize sober events and activities, providing a safe space to socialize and enjoy the summer.
Practice Self-Care
Maintaining sobriety is as much about mental health as it is about physical health. Regular self-care is crucial. This could mean meditating, journaling, getting plenty of sleep, or anything else that helps you relax and focus on your well-being.
Learn New Skills
Learning something new can be a powerful way to stay occupied and gain a sense of achievement. Whether it’s cooking, painting, or learning a musical instrument, dedicating time to a new skill can provide a welcome distraction from any temptation.
Travel Sober
Traveling can be a great way to change your environment and create new, sober memories. Choose destinations that align with your sober lifestyle. This could be a wellness retreat, a hiking trip, or a city known for its museums and cultural sites rather than its nightlife.
Celebrate Your Sobriety
Remember to celebrate your sobriety. Each day you remain sober is a victory worth celebrating. Take time to acknowledge your hard work and progress, whether that’s treating yourself to a spa day, a nice meal, or simply taking a moment to reflect on your journey.
Seek Professional Help When Needed
If you find the summer challenging, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Whether it’s reaching out to your counselor, therapist, or a trusted mentor, remember you’re not alone in this journey. We offer a variety of treatment options at Mount Sinai Wellness Center; contact our team to learn how we can help you through this season.
Staying sober during the summer may present its challenges, but with some planning and the right mindset, it’s more than possible to enjoy the season while maintaining sobriety. Remember, sobriety doesn’t limit your ability to have fun — it enhances it by allowing you to engage and remember every joyful moment fully. So here’s to a summer of sobriety full of laughter, love, and lasting memories.
