A safe, sober, and enjoyable summer—that’s RCA’s goal for every member of our community. Spending time with loved ones, enjoying the great outdoors, and creating new memories are all possible in recovery. But for some, summer can also bring up triggers and challenges that may threaten their sobriety.
Plan Ahead
If you’re in recovery, it’s essential to plan ahead for potential triggers that may arise during the summer. Summer is often full of celebrations like weddings, graduations, and holidays. For someone in recovery, these events may bring up feelings of FOMO (fear of missing out) or pressure to participate in drinking or drug use.
Part of your treatment journey will involve identifying these triggers and developing coping strategies. Use these tools to create a plan for navigating the summer season, whether it’s participating in sober activities or having a support system in place for any challenges that arise.
Tip: Work with your treatment team to create a “sober summer survival guide” or list of resources that can help you stay on track during the season.
Get Outdoors
Did you know that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being?1 Even a short walk or hike can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost self-esteem.
This summer, take advantage of the warm weather and longer days by planning outdoor activities with your loved ones. Look for parks or other locations that enforce a ban on alcohol, making them ideal for sober outings. And while getting your blood flowing is a mood-booster, you don’t have to be active to get outside—a picnic, outdoor concert, or simply sitting and enjoying the scenery can be just as rejuvenating.
Tip: Make getting outdoors a competition for your loved ones. Set a goal to visit every state park within an hour’s drive, try to get outside for 30 minutes a day, or pick one meal each week to enjoy outdoors.
Plan Sober Events
You don’t have to be an event planner to have fun with your loved ones. Invite friends and family over for a game night, movie marathon, or barbecue. These events don’t have to revolve around alcohol—instead, focus on good food, conversation, and creating new memories. Make sure your loved ones know that this will be a sober evening and that they can support you by spending time with you without drugs or alcohol.
Many cities offer unique activities like escape rooms or painting classes that are alcohol-free.
Tip: Keep an eye out for sober summer events through our Alumni Association!
Keep Up with Healthy Routines
Summer can be a time of relaxation and spontaneity, but it’s important to maintain healthy routines in recovery. This includes getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, and staying active.
Treatment focuses on routines for a reason. They provide structure and stability, telling your brain and body what to expect. Deviating from these routines can increase stress, anxiety, and cravings. Even if you’re going on a trip or have a busy social calendar, try to stick to your routines as much as possible.
Tip: Get your loved ones involved in your healthy routines! Have a cook-off competition where everyone has to use a secret healthy ingredient, start a fitness challenge together, or try out new recipes from a cookbook.
Celebrate Sobriety Milestones
In recovery, every day sober is worth celebrating. Use the summer season as an opportunity to recognize and celebrate any milestones in your sobriety journey. These milestones might include:
- Hitting a certain number of months in recovery
- Attending a specific number of support group meetings
- Achieving a goal in your treatment plan
Celebrating these milestones with loved ones can bring a sense of accomplishment and support. It’s also an opportunity for them to show their pride and be part of the journey.
Tip: Have a sober barbecue or picnic to celebrate your milestones. Invite friends and family and have everyone share something they’re grateful for about your sobriety journey.
What Happens if You Relapse?
First, it’s time to bust a myth—relapse is not a sign of failure. It’s a common part of the recovery journey, and it’s important to know that you can get back on track.
If you or a loved one relapses this summer, reach out for support from your treatment team or support group right away. Remember to be kind to yourself and focus on getting back on the path to recovery. The key is to get back into treatment as soon as possible. Don’t wait for a small slip to become a full-blown relapse.
However, relapse isn’t inevitable. You have the tools and resources to navigate this summer safely and soberly. Reach out for support, stick to your treatment plan, and prioritize self-care to have a fulfilling summer in recovery.
Find Support at Recovery Centers of America
At RCA, we believe that recovery is possible for everyone. Our treatment programs focus on individualized care, evidence-based practices, and long-term support to help patients achieve lasting sobriety.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, call 833.926.5486 today to learn more about our treatment programs and resources. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Source:
