Summer sobriety: 5 tips for a safe and sober summer
Summertime can be a challenging season for those working to maintain sobriety from drugs and alcohol. With the sunny weather, swimming, barbecues, and holidays like the Fourth of July, it can be difficult to stay sober. So, it’s essential to practice healthy habits and self-care during this time. Find tips on making smart, healthy choices to stay sober this summer in the video and article below.
At Carrum Health, we understand that struggling with addiction can feel overwhelming and isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. We work with the nation’s leading recovery centers, including Recovery Centers of America, to provide meaningful support and customized treatment to help you reclaim your life.
If you or your covered family member is facing an alcohol or opioid use problem, contact Carrum Health. You may have access to compassionate treatment from top recovery centers to support your path to sobriety — at little to no cost to you. If your employer offers Carrum Health’s substance use treatment benefit, call (855) 729-3511 or register to get started.
Video: Summer Sobriety Tips | Recovery Centers of America
1. Make and maintain a sober social circle.
Gatherings in the summer tend to be centered around alcohol and other substances. If you’re the only sober person in the group, it can be very difficult to maintain abstinence. Find a sober network of people who are inviting, understanding, and supportive of your sobriety goals, and socialize with them.
2. Have a plan.
Make a plan for handling peer pressure or tempting situations that may come up this summer. Pin down your go-to responses for any difficult situations, and use these to keep yourself accountable.
3. Develop healthy hobbies.
Get involved in activities that don’t involve drinking or using drugs, like sports, working out, or enjoying nature. Doing something you enjoy will help you spend your time and energy in a productive and healthy way.
4. Join a support group.
Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment where people can discuss mental health issues, grief, substance use recovery, and other struggles. Not only do support groups allow you to unload emotional burdens, but they can also help you to gain a new perspective on life by listening to others’ stories, receiving advice, and learning new coping tools.
5. Ask for help.
Reach out to a sober friend or sponsor when you need help. Connecting with others can provide much-needed support if you’re struggling in your sobriety.
With the right attitude and healthy practices, you’ll be able to enjoy barbecues, holidays, and other activities to the fullest while remaining sober. To learn more about finding confidential substance use treatment through your Carrum Health benefit, call (855) 729-3511 or register today.
The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. No material is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
