THOUGHTS FROM GEE
HEALTH + WELLNESS
WELL MIND BLOG
Alcohol gives me really bad hangovers and we have plans tomorrow morning that I want to be able to enjoy. I don't get to see my family very often so I don't want to forget anything. There are many ways to refuse an offer. You don't even have to share with others that you're sober if you don't want to. Some phrases you might find helpful are: Practice Saying "No" At the events that you do choose to attend, it is possible (perhaps even likely) that someone will offer you a drink. Some hosts might even insist. When you're surrounded by people who are drinking and having a good time, it can be particularly tempting to take a sip. One way to prepare yourself for these situations is to practice ways of saying "no." Think about ways that you would refuse offers for drinks or other substances. You can even do this out loud at home by yourself or with a loved one. Bring Your Own Beverages If you want to be sure that you have an alcohol-free alternative, plan to bring your own drinks with you. This can ensure that you have something that you enjoy so you don't feel left out. For instance, bring your favorite sparking cider, juice, or soda. Head Home Early You don't have to stay late for every holiday party or gathering. If you notice yourself becoming frustrated with others or the environment, it's perfectly okay to head home. Also, if you notice that your willpower for maintaining sobriety is waning, leaving may be a smart choice. Leave whenever you need to. I really want to remember this night. I'm the sober driver for the evening. I'm working on being more present.
The holiday season can be brutal— especially if you’re taking a break from booze or quitting for good. That’s because holiday parties and other festivities are often dripping in alcohol. Back in the day when I used, I would find myself on week-long binges between Christmas and New Year’s, simply because I had too much time on my hands. Not drinking during the holiday season can often feel like you’re the only sober lifeform in the universe. And, if you’ve built your world around alcohol, odds are your relationships and memories are tethered to the bottle. You may not even remember past December without memories swirling in snow and liquor. Be open about your decision not to drink. “It’s a lot easier to stay accountable and feel supported if other people know that’s what you're trying to do,” says Dr. Feinblatt. She recommends finding a friend you trust and telling them: “I'm really trying to stay sober for the time being, and it would help me to know that you are aware of that, supportive of that, and can maybe help me navigate somebody offering me a drink.” If the person you tell gives a reaction that isn’t understanding, “that's probably not a person that you want to rely on,” says Dr. Feinblatt. Continue Reading here
Continue Reading here
HOLA SOBER | MADRID
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker