Getting Sober and Sharing on the Group Level

“Our stories disclose in a general way what we used to be like, what happened, and what we are like now. If you have decided you want what we have and are willing to go to any length to get it-then you are ready to take certain steps. At some of these we balked. We thought we could find an easier softer way but we could not. With all the earnestness at our command we beg of you to be fearless and thorough from the very start. Some of us have tried to hold onto our old ideas and the result was nil until we let go absolutely. Remember we deal with alcohol- cunning, baffling and powerful! Without help it is too much for us. But there is one who has all power that one is god. May you find him now! Half measures availed us nothing. We stood at the turning point. We asked his protection and care with complete abandon.” – pg. 58-59 How It Works from the big book of Alcoholics Anonymous

Providing alcohol addiction help is a huge part of the recovery process. When we share on a group level or one on one it is important to talk about what happened, what it was like, and what it’s like now so that others can relate and see that it is possible for them to stay sober as well. This excerpt from how it works explains in a nutshell exactly what we go through when we first get sober. We all look for an easier way or a way out, we see that it doesn’t work, and we either surrender or start drinking again. Whether we are in a drug addiction detox, AA, or a 30 day rehab program it is important that we turn our will and our lives over to the care of someone/something else. We need to fully surrender in order to gain the willingness needed to live this new way of life we have found in sobriety. It is through this process of surrender that we are able to be free from our addiction and are able to pass on experience, strength and hope to the newcomer.

Your Holiday Sobriety Survival Guide

The holidays are always a time to celebrate. From office parties to family get-togethers, this time of the year is often filled to the brim with laugher, fun, and a fair amount of stress. Though it can be tempting to indulge in a little “fun”, it’s important to keep in mind your goals and happiness when attempting to maintain a happy and sober lifestyle during the holiday season. In this entry, we will discuss some tips to tricks to help you through.

1 – Consider hosting your own party for friends and family members. If the temptation of social drinking poses an issue, this can be a wonderful way to control the situation. Spend the money that would otherwise go towards alcoholic beverages on fancier food items, decorations, and entertainment. Not only will you likely save a good deal of cash, but avoid the mess associated with a large-scale alcohol-based get-together. And heck… you’ll probably end up creating some new and magical memories you may have forgotten otherwise!

2 – If you do decide to attend a holiday party, volunteer yourself to act as a designated driver. The more people you have counting on you to get them home safely, the more likely you will be to remain responsible.

3 – Remind yourself of how much better you will feel after the party if you avoid alcohol. When you are tempted to indulge in a drink, try remembering how far you’ve come with your sobriety, and how sick you have felt after previous binges. Making a point to recall these instances may be enough to trick yourself into foregoing the bottle.

4 – Ask your family and friends for their support. Utilizing a buddy system can help keep you on track in case your commitment to sobriety begins to wane. Explain your desire to remain sober, and ask them to help you when temptation is lurking.

5 – Never go out on an empty stomach. If you are attending a holiday function, it’s a good idea to head out with a full belly. The more food you have in your system when you arrive, the less you will be tempted to indulge. A healthy dose of protein will be enough to fill your belly, while providing you with energy to socialize during the event.

6 – Implement your New Years resolution early. Most of us make resolutions to better ourselves following the holiday havoc, without regard to the damage we are doing along the way. Remember that New Years is just another day. By making an early commitment to yourself to maintain sobriety throughout November and December, you will be more likely to abide.

Need Help?

If you or someone you know is having difficulty maintaining their sobriety, our Above It All drug rehab counselors are available to help! Give us a call today, and let us help you back on track towards the merry, happy, and healthy holiday season you deserve.