When people recover from drug and alcohol addiction, they often need to readjust their lives to maintain their sobriety. One issue that often comes up is how they can enjoy parties without substance use. How does sober partying work?
If using drugs and drinking alcohol was the way you had fun in the past, it could be tricky to attend parties again when you’re intent on maintaining sober living. Parties – and what goes on during these events – can come with triggers that might cause a recovery setback within the first year or two after addiction treatment.
If you or someone you care about needs addiction treatment, contact Midwest Detox Center online or call 833.647.0392 to find out about our helpful programs. Let’s get you on the path to recovery so you can start enjoying going to parties again in the future.
5 Ways to Enjoy Sober Partying
It’s worth noting that sober partying is possible. The key is changing your mindset. Sobriety is not just a life without drugs and alcohol. It is a new beginning of a chapter that can be filled with fun, as well as excellent physical and mental health.
1. Go To Parties With a Supportive Friend
Never go to a party alone. You need a buddy with you to hold you accountable and to keep you from being tempted. Make sure that the friend you go to parties with supports your recovery completely, won’t leave you to fend for yourself, and can talk to you when a craving hits.
If you can, go to parties with more than one friend like this. Or, when you go to a party, hang out with people that are not using drugs or drinking alcohol.
2. Know Who to Call
Sometimes, your friends won’t be around when temptation strikes. Maybe they’ll be in line to go to the bathroom or in the kitchen filling up their plate.
If you ever find yourself alone and within the vicinity of drugs and alcohol, calling someone to keep you company can help. Make sure you have several supportive and available people you can talk to – let them know that you might call them when you’re feeling tempted – and have their numbers saved to your contact list.
When it comes to alcohol addiction and drug addiction, having friends and family you can depend on for support could be life-changing.
3. Practice Refusing Drug and Alcohol Offers
Some people won’t know that you’re dealing with a drug or alcohol addiction. You might find yourself having to refuse people’s offers throughout the night, especially if you’re going to a huge party. Don’t give in to peer pressure, and make it clear that you’re dedicated to staying clean throughout the night.
Usually, the direct approach works. A simple “no” should work, especially if you know the person offering. They should be able to take the hint. You can also try, “I’m not drinking/using tonight. I have an alcohol/drug addiction, and I’m trying to stay clean.” Most people will respect that. If they don’t, stand your ground or simply walk away and find or call someone to get you through the temptation.
If you have trouble refusing people’s offers or just talking to people in general, it can help to practice your possible responses in front of a mirror or with a friend. Here are some other relatable refusal statements you can try:
- “No, thanks. I’m the designated driver tonight.”
- “I’ve had my limit for tonight. Thank you, but I’m good now.”
- “I can’t drink or use anymore because of health issues.”
- “I want to keep a clear head so I can enjoy the party.”
4. Join Games and Activities That Don’t Involve Drugs and Alcohol
There’s more to do at a party than beer pong or flip cup. You can connect with and talk to people at the party, whether they’re sober or not. You can dance and enjoy listening to music.
If you get tired of not having anything fun to do at parties where drugs and alcohol take center stage, consider going to different events and places where social interactions happen. You can:
- Join a recreational sports team.
- Join a book club, make friends, and start reading.
- Go to a local festival or convention.
- Join a gym and start focusing on fitness.
- Go to an aquarium or a zoo.
- Do some volunteer work.
- Take classes and get into new hobbies.
5. Throw a Sober Party
The best way to control what happens at a party is to throw it yourself. If you’re new to sober living and want to enjoy a party, this could be the answer. You can:
- Serve mocktails – nonalcoholic cocktails – and snacks of your choice.
- Set up activities that don’t need drugs and alcohol, like video games.
- Invite sober people and people who can follow house rules. Tell everyone that drugs and alcohol aren’t allowed in your home.
If someone breaks the rule or has you close to relapsing in any way, the solution is easy. It’s your home, so you can kick them out.
Learn More About Midwest Detox Today
Are you or someone you care about in the midst of dealing with a drug or alcohol addiction? Contact Midwest Detox online or call 833.647.0392. Ask about our programs and how we can provide you with medical and professional help.
