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For many people, the holiday season is a time for celebration with friends and family, and hopefully the same is true for you. For many in recovery, however, there is a tremendous amount of anxiety at this time of year because the festive season tends to be rife with temptation in the form of alcohol … Continued
Looking to get into the spirits without getting into the spirits? These festive mocktails are here to help. Here are some of our favourites from years past: Cranberry-Apple Cider Punch (Modified from here) A fizzy and refreshing taste of the season that’s super easy to make! In a punch bowl or large pitcher, stir together: … Continued
by Carlos Herrera I’m happy I know how to turn down my drinking buddies on the biggest partying night of the year. But that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. This New Year’s Eve, when the clock hits midnight, millions of people will kiss their significant others, drink champagne and raise a toast to a lovely year … Continued
by Ash Thoms It’s New Year’s Eve, and waking up to that realization is exciting. The new year is so close, with new experiences, friends, happiness and trials to be had. I spend the first few moments checking my phone to see what all of my friends are planning as resolutions for the next year. … Continued
Remember, alcohol is not needed to have fun. You can stay strong and abstain from drinking on New Year’s Eve by having a solid game plan, reminding yourself of why you stopped drinking, relying on AA meetings and your sponsor, and surrounding yourself with people who won’t be drinking on New Year’s Eve.
Journalist and author Jane Velez-Mitchell speaks candidly about how she has celebrated New Year’s Eve in the 17 years she has been sober.
For those in addiction recovery, there may be a desire to lock yourself in the basement during the holiday season until it’s over. However, connecting with others and attending communal events are needed for optimal recovery.
Holiday time is usually party time, whether with family, friends or colleagues. The good news is that we can still have fun at parties! We just have to be a bit extra vigilant, especially if we’re fairly new to sobriety. Here are some tried-and-true tips for you on how to party clean and sober – and stay that way!
If I had continued drinking there was a very good chance I would not actually have been here to write this today. My addiction would have robbed my family of a father and husband. It would have been a much different holiday experience for my wife and children had I not been able to be here with them to share in the joy.
I go to many parties and events related to this season but most are recovery related, with no drinking or drug use. I simply enjoy being around people in recovery much more these days. However, at family functions and other situations where there is drinking, my sobriety comes first. If I am finding that I am getting overwhelmed by the situation, I have the right to leave if necessary.
