The start of football season often means Sundays parked in front of the TV with friends. Traditionally, that often means food you wouldn’t eat in a healthy diet and alcohol. It’s about cheering on your team but also bonding with friends and family.
A substance use disorder (SUD) can change the way you watch a football game. Being around those consuming alcohol or using other substances simply isn’t safe for a person in addiction recovery. What does that mean for you, and what can you really do about it?
At Iron Bridge Recovery Center, we work with those ready to build a healthier future, one that supports health and wellness and lets you make your own decisions. You’ll learn strategies for managing high-risk situations like these when you request help in our alcohol addiction treatment program in Chester, VA.
How to Stay Sober During Football Season
People who suffer from alcohol use disorder (AUD) face significant risks to their mental and physical health when they consume these substances. That’s because these substances change the structure and function of the brain, making it nearly impossible for someone to avoid using them.
During your addiction treatment at Iron Bridge, you’ll learn about relapse triggers and build strategies to avoid them. For most people, being around others using alcohol, especially in a positive environment like this, is a trigger to avoid. So, what do you do? Consider these strategies.
#1: Mock Yourself Up
You don’t want to drink, but you also don’t want to be left out. In these situations, have a conversation with your addiction recovery team. Find out how they feel about you being present in these situations. If you can get support when you need it, you may be able to mock up your favorite drinks.
That often means choosing non-alcoholic versions of beer or mixed drinks. This can mean having a drink in your hand and feeling like everyone else. It’s up to you to choose whether or not you tell anyone what you’re really drinking!
#2: Be the Person That Doesn’t Drink
In events like this, responsible drinking means someone has to promise to avoid alcohol to be the designated driver. Whether you’re going to the stadium or drinking at a friend’s home, make yourself that person.
That means you’re the one everyone else is counting on to stay sober so they can get home safely. In some situations, that means you’ll be helping to protect the lives of those you care about the most. Again, you must be able to trust yourself in these situations.
#3: Put AA to Work for You
After leaving alcohol addiction treatment, you’ll likely start working with local AA meetings and mentors. Going to those meetings before the football season starts or during those first few weeks allows you to gauge where you are in your recovery process. There are times when you’re simply too vulnerable to be around substances like this and, therefore, you shouldn’t.
However, know that there’s help available to you:
- Go to meetings prior to the event you’re attending. Talk about what’s worrying you to those who get it.
- Reach out to your therapist to discuss the risks to you, personally, of attending.
- After the game, make a beeline right to the therapist or AA meeting. That’s going to reinforce the strength you demonstrated by not engaging in alcohol.
If you are feeling at risk for relapsing from an SUD, do not hesitate to seek help. Iron Bridge is available to help you immediately when you are facing those intense moments and need more help.
#4: Plan Your Own Event at Home
The reality is sometimes being in an environment that puts you at risk is simply not worth your sobriety and physical health. That doesn’t mean you can’t watch the game and enjoy yourself. You just may need to do so without alcohol present.
- Skip the bar. Host a group of friends at your home who get it.
- Indulge in other ways. Instead of alcohol and substances, serve up all types of unique foods or a fun menu.
- Invite people who are also sober. The number of those who don’t drink is increasing.
- Focus on getting into the game. Study the game and charts before the event. That way, you can focus on the game instead of on what you’re missing.
Building a plan like this allows you to be in control over every aspect of the experience. It aids in protecting you from making decisions that simply aren’t worth giving up your sobriety for at this point in your life.
It’s Not Easy. We Are Here to Help
At Iron Bridge Recovery Center, we know real-world situations like this are serious and can impact your quality of life. You don’t have to feel caught and left out. Let us provide you with the strategies you need to rebuild your future without feeling limited. Contact us now.
