Staying sober when your friends are drinking can be difficult when you’re in recovery from a substance use disorder, especially early on. One of the most challenging things is relearning how to socialize without using alcohol. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for staying on track with your recovery goals when your friends are not sober. We will also provide some helpful resources for those struggling with alcohol addiction.
Lean into Your Spiritual Program of Action
One of the most important things you can do if you’re trying to stay sober is to lean into your spiritual program. During the addiction recovery process, you may have learned skills such as introspection, prayer, or meditation. On the path toward recovery, it is important that you continue to use and practice those skills. These may be mindfulness techniques, a daily meditation practice, or prayer. These techniques can help you become less reactive to what is happening around you and allow you the opportunity to gain a new perspective on stressful situations.
Another important aspect is to attend 12-Step recovery meetings. One such meeting is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). AA is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with one another. The people you may meet in meetings know what it is like to be in your shoes and will be able to provide you with resources and support.
Find Sober Friends
While you don’t have to give up your friends who still drink, you may want to take a closer look at those relationships and see if alcohol was your only connection. If that is the case, it may be a good time to rethink that relationship. Support groups, 12-Step fellowships, and volunteer opportunities can all be great places to find friendships with people who are living a sober lifestyle.
Have a Plan
It’s also essential to have a plan for what you’ll do if your friends start drinking while you are together. It’s okay to say no and leave if you feel like you’re in danger of relapse or feel you are being pressured to drink. True friends will support your journey of recovery, not pressure you.
You can also try to find other activities to do with your friends that don’t involve drinking. For example, you could go to the movies, meet for coffee, or to a museum.
Set Boundaries
Setting healthy boundaries with your friends is up to you. Let your friends know that you are no longer drinking and ask for the support you need from them. If your friends are not willing to be supportive, you may need to end those friendships so that you can continue to maintain your commitment to recovery.
Seek Treatment or Support When You Need It
When struggles happen, it can be easy to isolate and sink into old behaviors that can undermine your recovery. Remember to reach out to your support network or fellowship in times of struggle or difficulty. Support can come in many forms. It may be a counselor, a therapeutic support group, a spiritual community, a 12-Step group, or friends in recovery.
We hope these tips have been helpful. If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, please remember that you are not alone, and help is available. Please reach out if you need assistance finding resources or support. We are here to help.
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Contact us for more information about how Windhaven House can help you achieve and maintain lasting sobriety. Call (877) 373-9898 or send us a message now.
