A vacation is a time to relax and take a break from the daily grind at work. Whether you plan to go to the beach, go camping, or visit another country, a vacation is beneficial to your mental health. During your vacation, you can spend quality time with loved ones, relieve anxiety, and recharge. Sadly, many people turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cut loose during their vacation time. In many cases, tips for staying sober can provide some guidelines for those in recovery.
If you have questions about staying sober this summer, we welcome you to reach out to our substance abuse treatment program. To learn more about our services and how we can support your long-term recovery, please reach out to Fort Behavioral Health today at 844.332.1807.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Stress
Most people go on vacation to relieve stress, but getting to your destination can be overwhelming and cause anxiety. Flight delays or cancellations, extra paperwork, and managing unsettled children can all contribute to unnecessary stress. If you are in early recovery, this added stress can increase the risk of relapse. Pre-planning your trip well in advance will allow you to be more prepared and less stressed.
Staying sober will allow you to have more fun during your vacation. Order a virgin specialty drink. Tropical destinations often use local produce in their cocktails. These can be enjoyed without the alcohol, and you will enjoy more memorable moments with loved ones on your vacation.
Remember Self-Care
Eat healthily and regularly, exercise, and get a good night’s sleep. Take alone time when you need it. Be sure to monitor your energy levels and moods to stay healthy, active, and balanced. Many travel companies, cruise lines, and resorts offer alcohol-free vacations. Some destinations provide sober music festivals, spas, camping, and yoga retreats. Not only will you enjoy a sober vacation, but you will also be around a supportive network of people in recovery.
Advocate for Yourself
In recovery, you need to advocate for yourself. If you feel pressured to drink, remove yourself if you feel vulnerable. Take extra precautions, such as asking hotel staff to remove all alcohol from the mini bar. Do not miss a well-deserved vacation when you are in recovery. While sober, you will have the freedom to explore fun and exciting activities that you could not do before treatment.
Vacation can be a memorable experience while sober. When vacationing, travel with people who support your sobriety and who will look out for your best interests. There is so much to see and enjoy without drugs or alcohol.
Rely on Your Support Network
One of our primary tips for staying sober is to never forget that you are not alone in this battle. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, we recommend reaching out to a support network, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or Al-Anon. These resources are available in cities across the country, so you can find help no matter where you are. If you need assistance finding a meeting near you, please call our addiction treatment center at any time.
Getting Help and More Tips for Staying Sober
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, you are not alone. Do not let stigma prevent you from getting help. While there is no cure for addiction, treatment is available, and there is hope in the recovery process. Take the first step to restore your health and renew your spirit. Get help today so you can enjoy a fulfilling, meaningful, sober lifestyle.
Our addiction recovery programs cover medically supervised detox, as well as residential programs for men and women alike.
Our programs are abstinence-based and combine a 12-step approach with a strong mental health component, integrating cutting-edge techniques such as:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR)
- Somatic experiencing
- Motivational interviewing
For more information or to start your healing journey, please fill out a contact request form, and one of our recovery experts will connect with you shortly.
Seek Support at Fort Behavioral Health
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, we can help. At Fort Behavioral Health, we offer comprehensive treatment for addiction and mental health disorders. Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of each individual, and our team of experts is committed to providing the highest quality care. For more information about Fort Behavioral Health, please contact us today at 844.332.1807.
