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The aim to stay sober when going out may seem like a bore for some individuals. In the UK, heavy alcohol consumption is normalised, especially when partying or leading a busy social life. If you’re not drinking alcohol, you’re branded as boring or weak by many; especially those who use any excuse to arrange an alcohol fuelled get together.
Yet for those who are health conscious, recovering from an addiction, or live with mental health issues, social events can trigger old habits, seen as high-risk scenarios. Those ‘you’re not drinking’ questions or ‘go on, have one’ comments can be difficult to overcome. In this instance, a motivation to stay sober is required.
Although the aim to stay sober may seem extremely challenging and dull, there are also many perks of an alcohol-free night. From avoiding those dreading hangovers, to saving money, a sober night out can benefit all. Yet, for those who are maintaining a road of recovery, finding coping mechanisms to stay sober when going out is a must. If you’re actively aiming to reduce or stop your alcohol consumption at social events and beyond, here’s some guidance from our specialists here at Rehab Clinics Group.
You’ll see the most familiar scenarios, commonly fuelled by alcohol consumption, along with healthy ways to stay sober throughout. Yet, before visiting a social event, feeling comfortable with sobriety as a whole is recommended, helping you soon feel comfortable with alcohol-free socialising. If you’re out with someone who chooses to remain sober, please avoid the comments or pressures linked to drinking; they may be dealing with an underlying addiction or mental health issue.
How to stay sober when going out to an alcohol fuelled environment
Trying to stay sober when going out may initially feel very difficult, especially when visiting the likes of a pub. Pubs are a prime location for alcohol consumption. This atmosphere may trigger old behaviours for those recovering from substance abuse or mental health problems.
Yet, there are some recommended coping mechanisms you can use to maintain your sobriety, even when visiting the pub. One of the best ways to avoid reaching for alcohol is by always having an alcohol-free drink in your hand, preferably something you really enjoy. This will help make staying sober a little easier, especially while surrounded by others consuming alcohol.
Visiting a pub or bar where other social events are taking place is also a great way to stay sober when going out. Ideal for those who are newly recovering from addiction or those with strong sober aims, pub quiz nights or themed events can distract you from consuming alcohol, along with distracting others from your aim to remain sober. This is a great way to become comfortable with alcohol-free socialising.
How to stay sober when meeting new people
Consuming alcohol while meeting new people or dating is the norm. Yet, there are many benefits of staying sober when going out with someone new. We get it, drinking alcohol most definitely calms the nerves. In tandem, it can have a negative impact on your perception, judgments and also enjoyment.
Explaining to your new date or friends that staying sober is your aim may seem daunting at first. You may worry that they will judge your decision. Yet, sticking to your guns when going out is a true test of your ability to control your behaviours and feelings. You’ll soon start to feel comfortable by avoiding alcohol, along with the chance to improve your night.
If you’re truly concerned that your aim to stay sober may impact your ability to form relationships, start with something fun, unrelated to alcohol. Distancing yourself from alcohol exposed locations or activities is a great way to naturally stay sober when going out, without making it a big thing.
How to stay sober when going out to alcohol fuelled events
How often have you gone to the likes of a gig, spent a fortune, queued up for a large proportion of the event for your next tipple, followed by blurred memories of your favourite band? This is very common when drinking at social events.
Now imagine how enjoyable a sober gig can be, especially if you love the band or act, you’re watching. Initially, the aim to stay sober when going out to alcohol fuelled events may seem tricky. A large proportion of event goers will consume alcohol. Yet, by remembering why you’re staying sober, along with communicating this to your friends, you’ll feel in control and ready to enjoy your evening. Not to mention the possibility of attending an event whenever you like, with the chance to avoid impending hangovers.
If you’re struggling with social anxiety or exposure to personal triggers, coping mechanisms can be found through support groups or with our guidance here at Rehab Clinics Group.
How to stay sober, no matter the social event or scenario
Whether you’re attending one of the above social events, meeting new people or have a small get together with family or friends, an initial attempt to stay alcohol-free can feel difficult. If you’re used to drinking alcohol at social events or have a busy social life, sobriety may be seen as an obstacle.
Yet, through finding your own coping mechanism, along with learning to feel good without drinking, the aim to stay sober when going out will become easier. For anyone, whether it’s for someone fundraising through sober attempts, for those who are aiming for a healthier lifestyle, or for recovering addicts, this level of exposure can firstly be tough. But once you’ve found an optimal level of comfort and stay sober at that first social event, you’ll be ready to leave alcohol in the past.
Drinking alcohol should be a choice. Socialising shouldn’t result in immediate alcohol consumption. You can enjoy yourself just as much by controlling your desire to drink alcohol.
If you’re unfortunately struggling with alcohol abuse and find it hard to attend social events, we can help you through a range of treatments and coping mechanisms. Achieve the aim to stay sober when going out by increasing your comfort with sobriety, along with embracing your reason to remain sober.
