How to Handle Social Events in Sobriety Without Feeling Left Out

Addiction recovery can be challenging in many ways. People in recovery may face physical and emotional difficulties as they work toward long-term sobriety. Many people feel isolated or lonely as they begin to navigate the world without drinking.

Some people may wonder if it’s possible to attend social events without drinking. Can people stay sober while engaging in social gatherings where alcohol is present?

This article will outline how to handle social events during recovery.

If you or someone in your life needs addiction or mental health support during recovery, you are not alone. Find the comprehensive support you need at Alamo Behavioral Health. Learn about our programs and resources, or schedule an intake appointment by contacting our specialists today.

10 Tips on Handling Social Events in Recovery

Socializing in recovery may feel overwhelming. People may wonder if it’s possible to maintain sobriety while spending time in places where alcoholic drinks are available. However, it can be challenging to imagine enjoying life without socializing with friends or family members. So, is it possible to stay sober in social settings where alcohol is available?

Addiction experts and mental health professionals may recommend avoiding social activities involving alcohol during the earliest stages of recovery. However, as time goes on, people may want to consider attending these events again.

Here are ten strategies people can use to handle social events in sobriety.

1. Know your “why”

It’s critical to remember your reasons for getting and staying sober. Your “why” might be related to being a better partner or parent, staying healthy, avoiding legal trouble, or other reasons.

Remind yourself of your “why” before attending social events involving alcohol. Take time to reflect on your goals and focus on why sobriety is important to you.

2. Develop healthy coping skills

Before attending social events, you must develop healthy skills to cope with stress and challenges. These could include:

• Mindfulness
• Breathing exercises
• Distractions
• Taking breaks

Having a good set of coping skills can help you reduce any stress or tension that comes up during social events and reduce the risk of relapse.

3. Know your triggers

Knowing your triggers is critical to protecting sobriety. Think about the sights, smells, objects, people, places, and situations that may trigger cravings. Anticipating triggers and having a plan to avoid or cope with them can help you navigate social situations without relapsing.

4. Practice makes perfect

While it might feel a little silly, practice refusing alcoholic drinks out loud. Having a planned response can help you turn down a drink, even when peer pressure is intense. You can use a range of phrases, including:

• No, thanks.
• I’m good.
• I don’t drink.

Practicing these and other refusals out loud can help you feel comfortable turning down a drink in real life.

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5. Bring a friend

Having a support system can make it easier to stay sober in a social setting. Bring a trusted friend or family member who will stay sober with you.

6. Have an exit plan

Staying alcohol-free can be challenging–and sometimes, you may need to leave a party early. Develop an exit strategy by:

• Setting a boundary around when you will leave
• Driving yourself to the party so you can leave quickly, if necessary
• Deciding you will leave if you feel stressed, pressured, or overwhelmed

Sometimes, people in recovery feel pressure to be a designated driver for friends who are drinking. However, this means you may not be able to leave when you need or want to. Make sure you can leave a social event without needing to wait for others.

7. Bring your own drink

Make it a habit to bring your own non-alcoholic drink to social events. Choose something you really enjoy. Having a delicious, non-alcoholic beverage in hand may increase your comfort and reduce the intensity of peer pressure to drink.

8. Take breaks

Take breaks from socializing to check in with yourself. Check your stress levels. Think about any experiences you’ve had that have made you uncomfortable. Ask yourself if you are OK with staying or if it’s time to go.

9. Reflect and rest

After attending an event, give yourself time to rest and reflect on the experience. Think about how you felt, any unexpected triggers you encountered, and how you handled any stress that came up.

10. Seek out sober social events

There are many sober activities, support groups, and other social events that don’t involve drinking. Seek out sober or recovery-based social events in your city. This can help you stay socially active and make new friends who support your goal of lifelong sobriety.

If you are thinking about drinking, experiencing cravings, or have new or worsening mental health symptoms, you may benefit from additional support. Relapses typically occur in stages. Knowing the stages of relapse and seeking support when you recognize the signs is essential.

Find Treatment and Support Now

Alamo Behavioral Health offers comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for addiction and mental health conditions. Contact our treatment specialists to learn about our recovery support programs or to schedule an intake appointment.