Safeguarding Your Sobriety this Summer
During the summer months, there is a spike in drug and alcohol relapse. However, there are plenty of ways that you can minimize your risk of using while enjoying all that the summertime has to offer.
Fill Your Free Time
When it comes to relapse triggers, boredom and idle time are amongst the most common. During the summer months, many people find themselves with a lot of leisure time on their hands, which can cause boredom to strike.
Whether you decide to pick up a new hobby or you want to fill your days with trips and activities, make the most of your freedom this summer to minimize the temptation to turn back to drugs and alcohol for entertainment.
Choose Social Events Wisely
Summer means hitting the beach, backyard barbeques, and summer parties with friends—but that doesn’t mean you’re obligated to attend. If you know that there will be drug or alcohol use at a party or gathering, you don’t have to go if you think it will be a triggering experience for you.
Some tips to help you choose which events to say yes to, keep these questions in mind:
- Will there be drugs and/or alcohol there?
- Will the people present respect my desire to be sober?
- Will I feel like I’m missing out if I don’t participate in drug or alcohol use?
- Do I have an exit strategy if I feel overwhelmed?
Be Patient With Yourself
If you do end up relapsing this summer, don’t be hard on yourself. Relapsing is a common experience when navigating the road to recovery and wellness. In fact, about 40-60% of people seeking treatment for addiction relapse at some point during their journey.
Take some time to acknowledge how far you’ve come and that you can commit to learning from your experience and continue to improve.
Seeking Help at Tranquil Shores
Whether you’re recovering from alcohol or drug addiction, Tranquil Shores can help you every step of the way toward wellness and recovery. Our experienced clinical team of addiction experts is dedicated to providing unique and personalized therapy to those looking for help with substance use disorders in Florida.
Please call us at (727) 391-7001 or get in touch with us online to take the first step on the road to recovery today.
