Many people who are recovering from substance use disorder (SUD) rely on structure and routine to manage this condition. Unfortunately, spending time away from home for a vacation may disrupt essential routines. According to an article in the journal Substance Abuse: Research and Treatment, free time can pose risks to sobriety. The authors explain that when a study’s “participants were asked what part of their day is particularly difficult for them in terms of recovery, their responses indicated that the specific time of day was not particularly significant, but rather that blocks of unused time, regardless of time of day, were most difficult.” Vacations may create significant blocks of unused time unless people take steps to stay sober by filling their leisure time with healthy activities. Fortunately, The Guest House prepares clients and alumni to navigate ongoing recovery using practical coping skills.
Why Is It Vital to Stay Sober on Vacations?
Staying sober is essential to the continued health of those in recovery. However, maintaining sobriety is even more critical during vacations when individuals may be away from crucial support resources. Besides, a relapse in an unfamiliar location away from people familiar with SUD may lead to overdose, injury, illness, or death. That’s why relapse prevention education is essential for individuals who intend to take a vacation during early recovery.
People in recovery should also conduct research to learn where they can get help in the event of a relapse. Knowing in advance how to locate the local hospital and other emergency services can save a life. In addition, many people on vacation take advantage of local recovery resources by attending self-help meetings or other groups during their stay.
5 Ways to Stay Sober During a Vacation
People use many methods to stay sober during vacations at home or abroad. What’s more, many relapse prevention strategies prepare people to address various potential scenarios. The Guest House offers relapse prevention counseling and resources to current clients and alumni. Clinicians can also provide advice to alumni who may be traveling. Below are five ways people in recovery can protect themselves and their sobriety while away from home.
#1. Avoid Popular Party Locations
Some places are famous for their party atmosphere, filled with rampant alcohol or substance abuse. For example, Las Vegas is often called the “party capital” of the United States. Avoiding locations known to support a party lifestyle reduces the risk of relapse by helping people avoid triggers and high-risk activities while on vacation. The Guest House encourages alumni to take advantage of sober activities and locations that support sobriety. Researching vacation locations in advance protects people from unintentionally vacationing in triggering environments.
#2. Travel With a Sober Companion or Sober Friend
The Guest House can connect alumni who are on vacation with sober mentors. Mentors provide in-person support or offer virtual check-ins. People may also bring a sober friend on vacation to provide additional accountability and moral support.
Taking a sober companion on trips away from home does the following:
- Encourages healthy decisions
- Creates a safe space
- Aids in managing triggers
- Creates positive experiences
- Encourages healthy communication
Traveling with a companion adds structure and reduces the risk of reverting to maladaptive coping behaviors under stress.
#3. Stay Sober by Making Sober Vacation Plans
Having sober plans may reduce many of the triggers people experience on vacations by eliminating or severely reducing exposure to alcohol, drugs, and other triggers. Making plans may include setting up activities at locations that do not serve alcohol and avoiding places or people that may promote substance abuse.
Sober vacation plans could include the following:
- Exploring nature or wellness programs
- Partaking in adventure sports
- Seeking cultural experiences
- Exploring new cities
- Attending creative workshops
- Participating in sober group tours
The internet makes it easy to identify what activities and locations are more likely to support a sober lifestyle, taking some of the stress and uncertainty out of vacation planning.
#4. Attend Local or Online Support Group Meetings
Self-help meetings, including Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), are available in most cities and online. The Guest House can provide details about how to access these groups while away from home. Also, online databases offer essential information for individuals preparing for vacations away from their support network. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and other resources can provide information about online self-help groups and local meetings.
#5. Stay Sober by Maintaining Your Routine
Most individuals in ongoing recovery from substance abuse have daily routines they use to avoid relapse and maintain positive mental health. Sticking with a routine can help people avoid falling back on old patterns of behavior. During vacations, routines might need to be adjusted to fit new environments or schedules. However, taking steps to maintain as much of the same routine as possible can reduce stress and anxiety.
Individuals in recovery maintain sobriety during time away from home by doing the following:
- Attending in-person or online self-help meetings
- Checking in with friends, family members, therapists, or sober mentors
- Utilizing coping skills to reduce the effects of triggers
Vacations are meant to be a relaxing opportunity to get away from life’s stressors. Maintaining healthy routines, including attending support meetings, can be integral to managing stress and remaining sober.
Vacations often involve new locations, social engagements, and activities with friends or strangers. Vacations take people away from familiar environments, frequently leaving them with reduced access to support networks. Preparing in advance by identifying potential triggers and developing coping strategies to manage them can help people enjoy their vacations during ongoing recovery. The Guest House offers alumni services and regular check-ins to ensure people have the resources they need to maintain sobriety anywhere. Alumni can reach out to the clinical team before going on vacation to learn more about online resources and other tools for maintaining sobriety away from home. To learn more about our services and programs, call us at (855) 483-7800.