For those in sobriety, the holiday season might seem stressful. If you are someone who has spiraled into alcohol abuse because of mental health, it is important to stay mindful of it during this time of the year. Some families might consider the holidays an inappropriate time to help a loved one get into addiction treatment when, in fact, it could be an ideal opportunity.

Find Sober Activities

Winter hikes provide a sense of accomplishment and connection with nature. The physical exertion releases endorphins, while the quiet surroundings offer a chance for reflection and stress relief. Ice skating engages your whole body, releasing endorphins that improve mood naturally. The physical challenge and social aspect provide a healthy alternative to drinking. And if you’re attending someone else’s gathering and need a game plan on how to answer “why aren’t you drinking?

For those in early recovery, life is planned around maintaining freedom from addiction. As such, taking a holiday can seem like a frightening prospect. The choosing of a place to stay, the packing, the travelling from A to B, the pressure to have a good time, and, most significantly, the prevention of relapse.

Some resorts label themselves inclusive but quietly allow alcohol, which can be tough. It’s worth checking if there are sober hosts or guides to lean on, especially for your first trip. Evenings may include group discussions, film nights, or live music—always without drinks but full of warmth. Guests also find quiet moments to journal or meditate, using the resort’s natural beauty as a backdrop for healing. Being sober here doesn’t feel like a challenge—it feels like a gift.

The Connection Between Addiction and Infidelity

It’s an opportunity to meet people who understand your journey and can offer local insights and support. Many recovery groups offer online meetings, allowing you to participate from anywhere in the world. This can be particularly helpful when traveling to areas where in-person meetings are scarce or when your schedule makes it difficult to attend local gatherings. To learn more about why self-care is crucial to maintaining your sobriety, check out this episode.

We offer substance abuse treatment, mental health services, aftercare options, and more, and we accept most insurance plans. Our sober-friendly gatherings are a safe space to celebrate the season. From festive activities to peer support, our events are designed to help you stay engaged and inspired. Joining others who share your commitment to sobriety can make a world of difference. Your support network, including your friends, family, or recovery group, is critical.

Time Management in Recovery

• When you feel one coming on, acknowledge it without judgment.
• Clearly communicate to your guests that the party will be alcohol-free.
• Drinking, or using drugs, can be a pastime that’s taken for granted among friends and family.
• Whether it’s no alcohol around you, needing to leave an event early, or avoiding specific topics of conversation, be specific and clear.
• Staying present in the moment is key to navigating the busy and often chaotic holiday season.
• Accepting life on life’s terms requires living with the loose grip of anticipation rather than the tight fist of expectation.

Yes, there are clubs and casinos, but on the whole, abstaining from alcohol is relatively easy in Malaysia; enjoy the local cuisine instead. You can also explore the local culture, meet new people, and focus on your physical health while on sober vacations. A hike, a camping trip, and the great outdoors make some of the best sober vacations.

• Despite this, with preparation and support, navigating the holidays while protecting your sobriety is possible.
• For a slightly more lively scene, Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun serves endless mocktails and sunset views designed for those who choose sobriety.
• Most of us think of holidays as breaks from our ‘normal’ life that might see us travelling away from home or abroad.
• You can also enjoy non-alcoholic drinks such as indigenous herbal/fruit teas and chichas made from delicate fruits instead of alcohol.
• Iceland is primed for adventure, whether you’re using Reykjavik as your base, or you’re staying out in the wilderness at an aptly named adventure hotel (ION Adventure is brilliant).

For a slightly more lively scene, Hyatt Ziva Riviera Cancun serves endless mocktails and sunset views designed for those who choose sobriety. The Viceroy Riviera Maya balances calm with luxury, giving guests a chance to enjoy the region’s charm without alcohol pressure. Just because it’s all-inclusive doesn’t mean it’s all-action. Some days can be slow, so bring hobbies or ways to keep your mind busy without alcohol.

Remember, it’s okay to retreat to an earlier Recovery Zone for a few weeks. Not everyone has a family or friends to be with during the holidays, a time of year when particular focus is put on socializing and spending time with loved ones. Gratitude is a powerful tool for maintaining a positive mindset. During the holidays, take time to reflect on the progress you’ve made in your recovery and the support you’ve received along the way. Consider writing down a few things you’re grateful for each day or sharing your gratitude with others. This practice can help shift your focus from stress or temptation to the positive aspects of your life.

• The social vibe differs from usual holiday spots, making it easier to relax while staying sober.
• Cravings can strike at any time, especially during the festive season.
• If you’re new to sobriety, read more about how to stay sober for the Fourth of July.
• An estimated 40% to 60% of people who receive treatment for substance abuse experience relapse at some point.
• Recovery happens one day at a time, even — or maybe especially — during the holidays.
• Even you might think that you’ve gotten the strength to battle your triggers.

Initiate Connection

Spending quality time with loved ones through substance-free activities is encouraged to foster social connections without the influence of alcohol or drugs. Building a robust support system is vital for navigating sober holidays. By staying connected with supportive individuals, handling social events with intention, and managing family dynamics, individuals can enjoy fulfilling and sober celebrations. The holiday season is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, filled with celebrations, family gatherings, and cherished traditions. However, this time of year can also present unique challenges for people in recovery. From the presence of alcohol at social events to the emotional weight of family dynamics, the holidays can sometimes feel more overwhelming than joyful.

It can be tempting to have “just one drink” to take the edge off. Pressure to drink (real or perceived) can make some gatherings feel uncomfortable and downright stressful. Moments when friends ask why you’re not indulging in the spiked eggnog, or insist that you participate in a champagne-fueled toast on what is alcoholism New Year’s Eve.

Most importantly, avoid accusatory or judgemental language. Sometimes, even well-meaning family won’t understand your boundaries. Lastly, it’s important to be firm but compassionate about your boundaries. Put your foot down regarding alcoholism symptoms things you don’t want to do but be nice about. If the trigger is something like a family gathering where you feel like you have to go, you can always make an appearance and then leave early.