Summer can be tough for people in recovery, with all the social events and outdoor activities. But don’t worry; with some planning and support, you can enjoy the season and stay on track with your sobriety! Whether this is your first summer in recovery or your 10th, we’re here to help you at Westwind Recovery®.
Overcoming a substance use disorder requires effort and dedication. The journey to achieve sobriety and maintain it during the summer can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can succeed. Here are some friendly tips to help you navigate the summer months while keeping your recovery goals in mind.
1. Communicate With Friends and Family
Let your friends and family know about your sobriety goals. Share that you’re in recovery and ask for the support of your friends and family members in avoiding situations that might tempt you to drink or use drugs.
Having understanding and encouraging people around you can make a big difference. When your loved ones are aware of your journey, they can provide the emotional and practical support you need. They might even join you in your sober activities, making the experience less isolating and more enjoyable!
2. Plan Sober Activities
Fill your summer schedule with fun, sober activities! Plan trips to the beach, go hiking or have a nature walk. Look for events that are alcohol-free, like music festivals or farmers’ markets. Keeping busy with fulfilling experiences can help you stay focused on your sobriety while enjoying summer fun.
3. Handle Social Events With Care
Summer events can be tricky, but you can navigate them without compromising your sobriety. Having a supportive friend who understands your situation and can provide support if needed is crucial. When attending social events, make sure to have a support system in place, like friends, family, or fellow sober individuals.
Have a plan before attending events, such as bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages, driving yourself so you can leave when you want, and having an exit strategy if you feel uncomfortable. It’s also helpful to have a sober buddy who understands your situation and can provide support if needed. Don’t be afraid to take a break or step outside if you feel overwhelmed.
4. Set Clear Boundaries
Set and communicate your boundaries to maintain healthy relationships. Let people know you won’t be partaking in any substance use and stick to sober environments and places that support your sobriety. It’s okay to decline invitations to events that might be triggering. Remember, your well-being comes first!
Being assertive about your boundaries is crucial. If certain people or situations are too challenging, it’s important to prioritize your freedom from addiction over social obligations. True friends will understand and respect your choices. Spend time with supportive people who respect your boundaries.
5. Create a Support Network
Building a strong support network is crucial for staying sober. Attend support group meetings to connect with others who are also recovering from addiction. Consider finding a sponsor, mentor, or a supportive friend for additional guidance.
Therapy can also be incredibly helpful, whether it’s individual or group sessions, to explore underlying issues and develop coping strategies. Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide a sense of community and accountability. Online forums and virtual meetings can also be valuable resources if in-person meetings are not feasible.
6. Develop Coping Strategies for Triggers
Identify your triggers and develop healthy coping strategies, especially if you are in early recovery. Practice mindfulness, relaxation techniques, physical activity, journaling, or therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Have a list of emergency contacts for when you need support. Being proactive about managing stress and cravings can prevent relapse. Techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery can help you stay calm and centered in challenging situations. Spend time with supportive individuals as a healthy coping strategy.
7. Maintain Healthy Habits for Mental Health
Incorporate healthy habits into your routine to support your mental health. Eat a balanced diet, get regular exercise, and prioritize sleep. Self-care activities like meditation, spending time in nature, or engaging in hobbies can provide positive outlets for stress and emotional distress. Good nutrition and physical activity can improve your mood and energy levels, making it easier to cope with stress.
Establishing a regular sleep schedule and practicing good sleep hygiene can enhance your overall well-being and resilience. Additionally, spend time with supportive people to cultivate a strong support network and enhance your mental well-being.
8. Create a Good Daily Routine
Having a healthy daily routine can provide structure and stability, which are essential for maintaining sobriety. Plan your days with a mix of productive tasks, leisure activities, and self-care practices. A routine can help you manage your time effectively and reduce the risk of boredom, which can be a trigger for substance use.
9. Stay Connected with Your Recovery Community
Include regular check-ins with your support group or network, whether through phone calls, meetings, or online chats, to stay connected and accountable. Additionally, make sure to include time to spend with sober friends and supportive family members in your daily routine.
Regularly attending support group meetings and staying in touch with your recovery community can provide ongoing encouragement and motivation. Sharing your experiences and hearing others’ stories can remind you that you’re not alone in your journey. Also, consider participating in recovery-oriented events and workshops to deepen your understanding and commitment to sobriety.
10. Engage in Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation practices can help you stay present and manage stress effectively, which can assist you in having a sober summer. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises can enhance your self-awareness and emotional regulation. Regular practice can improve your mental clarity and resilience, making it easier to cope with triggers and cravings.
11. Explore New Hobbies and Interests
Exploring new hobbies and interests can add excitement and fulfillment to your life. Consider exploring new hobbies or revisiting old ones that bring you joy. Activities like kayaking, cycling, painting, or gardening can be both therapeutic and engaging, helping to keep your mind off any cravings or temptations. Try activities you’ve always wanted to pursue, such as learning to play a musical instrument, cooking, or photography!
Engaging in creative and enjoyable activities can boost your mood and provide a healthy distraction from any temptations. Feel free to explore these new activities and interests with other sober people whose company you enjoy to further enhance your experience!
12. Volunteer and Give Back
Volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and connection, helping you stay focused on your recovery goals. Look for opportunities to give back to your community, such as helping at local shelters, participating in environmental cleanups, or supporting recovery-related organizations. Giving back can reinforce your commitment to sobriety and enhance your self-esteem.
13. Practice Gratitude
Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can positively impact your mental well-being and sobriety. Consider keeping a gratitude journal where you write down things you’re thankful for each day. Focusing on the positive aspects of your life can shift your mindset and improve your overall well-being. Expressing gratitude to others can also strengthen your relationships and support network. Spend time with supportive friends who encourage practicing gratitude.
Westwind Recovery® Can Help
Staying sober during the summer is possible with the right support and strategies. By planning sober activities, setting boundaries, creating a support system, and developing coping mechanisms, you can enjoy a fulfilling and sober summer season.
Remember, your sobriety is a priority, and with dedication and the right resources, you can navigate the challenges of summer while maintaining your recovery. Celebrate your progress, stay connected with your support network, and embrace the joys of a sober lifestyle.
Westwind Recovery® offers a wide range of treatment services to help you achieve a complete sense of holistic wellness and stay sober during the summer and beyond. Whether you need individual therapy, group therapy, or support group meetings, we provide the guidance and resources to keep you on track. Our compassionate and experienced staff can assist you in developing personalized strategies for maintaining sobriety and achieving your recovery goals.
If you are ready to embark on your sober summer journey, please reach out to us here at Westwind Recovery®! Our Los Angeles addiction treatment center is here to help you find healing and freedom from drug and alcohol abuse. Contact us and begin your path to a new life today!
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
