One reason sober bars are popping up across the country is that they remove the pressures and dangers of alcohol while providing a space for socialization and community, which all humans crave. “If you’re feeling flat, it’s unfortunately part of the recovery process, but try to take a walk or reengage in the activities that used to be pleasurable for you,” he said. I learned that if I’m going to be around drinkers, it’s best to plan ahead. When I went away with my friends to the lake house, I called my local cocktail bar ahead of time and asked if they could make me a nonalcoholic beverage to-go. I felt silly doing it, but they told me my order wasn’t all that unusual.

• Being in a positive and nonjudgmental environment can make the experience more enjoyable and fulfilling.
• If I was hanging out with friends, we were getting drunk.
• But I didn’t know what to do with them besides feel them.
• He would scream the answers and taunt everyone in the room.
• Socializing without alcohol can open up new possibilities for connection, fun, and personal growth.

Drugs & Supplements

It also gives you a sense of purpose that can help you stay focused. If you recently had surgery or an injury, your doctor will be careful with the pain medication they give you, because some of those drugs can make you more likely to relapse. Ask your doctor about nonmedical ways to manage your pain, like massage or acupuncture. You may want to start an exercise routine — exercise releases brain chemicals called endorphins, which can make you feel good. Or you might rather spend time volunteering for a good cause, like an animal shelter or children’s hospital. Whatever it is, new activities can lead to new friends with interests like yours.

How To Break Up With Friends Who Are Bad For Your Sobriety

Alcohol also has long-term severe risks, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, liver disease, and mental health problems. A 2023 study published in JAMA Network Open concluded that even low levels of alcohol consumption increase mortality risk. Drinking frequently or heavily has several serious health effects. In https://ecosoberhouse.com/ the short term, it can increase interpersonal conflict, cause hangovers, change behavior, and contribute to injuries and accidents. It can leave you tired, cause an inflammatory response that affects your immune system, and interfere with daily life. This gives you a quick and easy explanation for why you aren’t drinking.

If you believe you or someone you love has developed an addiction to alcohol, now is the time to seek help.

The findings also showed that half of TAAC participants reported drinking less following the challenge. Even after the challenge period concluded, 15% of participants reported they continued alcohol abstinence. There are many more interventions that may be used to help you recover from substance misuse.

Sometimes being sober is boring because your life revolves around alcohol.

Among recovering individuals themselves, in order to reduce risks, some choose only to attend sober parties or events. In some instances, family and friends may choose to hold their parties without alcohol, or at least downplay the central role that drinking might take. This can mean beefing up the non-alcoholic drink selection and offering more food options or other treats.

Be Prepared for People’s Reactions

Your doctor can supervise your detox, recommend treatment options, and refer you to local resources in your area that can help. They can also prescribe medications being sober around drinkers that can help with withdrawal, cravings, and abstinence. Often, sober curious individuals think more consciously about the decision to drink alcohol.