Alcohol is a popular addition to weddings, birthday parties, dinner celebrations, and other social events. Your journey in recovery from alcohol use disorder (AUD) does not need to circumvent these major events, as long as you are aware of the risks and prepared to face triggers.
Gather a Support Group
Find a trusted friend to accompany you to the social event. They can offer emotional support and may choose to abstain from alcohol in solidarity. Be honest about your anxieties. This person can protect your interests to the best of their ability, but you need to be detailed in your request for support.
Trust Your Skills
You learned how to overcome stressors in your personal, professional, and social life during your time in rehab. When temptation strikes, you can rely on the knowledge you accumulated in therapy. Take a breath and focus your attention inward. Consider your options and execute a plan based on your current mental state. Strike up a conversation with a friend who does not enjoy drinking if your present company triggers a negative response. Spend time by yourself in a space far away from any alcohol. Leaving the event because you feel uneasy is always a valid option.
If You’re Not Okay, Don’t Stay
You are never obligated to remain in a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable. If the presence of alcohol is too overwhelming, then you should leave the event and recover in a familiar space such as your home. Your friends will understand that you need to leave to preserve good mental health. To prevent any hurt feelings or keep your recovery private, you can provide an excuse explaining why you suddenly need to leave. You should prioritize your mental health, especially in early recovery. Acknowledging cravings and responding to the problem indicates emotional growth and increased awareness of self. Do not view this as a failure in recovery; see your actions as a clear indication of progress!
Sobriety should not keep you from having a social life, but your mental health should always take priority. At Avalon Malibu, we want you to be an active participant in your recovery. Our dedicated team of mental health professionals can equip you with the right tools to cope with daily stresses, including social events, that you can use within and outside the facility. Our commitment to offering diverse treatment options means that each person can enjoy a unique rehabilitation experience tailored to their individual needs. If you or a loved one are suffering with addiction and/or mental health issues, please call us today at (844) 857-5992 to learn how we can help.
