With dinners and parties happening everywhere, resisting the urge not to reach out for a drink would take a herculean effort. It took a lot of willpower for you to become sober, and you cannot let a couple of gatherings with friends and family bring you back to square one, right?

Many people would want to steer clear of these parties and would just spend the holidays in isolation. They would rather be alone than to risk going back into alcohol addiction.

An NYPost report revealed how tough it is for non-drinkers to make it through the holidays. In fact, a lot of non-drinkers feel stressed during the holidays instead of feeling the festivities.

how to survive holidays when sober
how to survive holidays when sober Jill Wellington - Pixabay

One comedian, Lane Moore, who also runs a comedy show in Brooklyn called Tinder Live, stated that the current time of year could trigger issues among non-drinkers. He said that many people would turn to alcohol consumption to hide the things that are bothering them.

Simon Becker, a fellow Brooklynite of Moore, said that each and every person would have their own complex issues with family. If it would be alcohol, which could help them, so be it. Becker has been sober for 7 years and was successful at it.

He’s saying that while everyone would have their own coping mechanisms, drinking clearly isn’t for everyone. Despite this, there is no reason for you not to enjoy the holidays.

Psychologist Amy Kaplan, of PlusCare, says that there are certain strategies that you can use during the holidays.

First, try to verify the place where you would be attending. Calendar your schedule. If there are activities which you have already attended before, then there’s no need for you to repeat the same activity.

Since they are your friends and you are their friend, then you can hold a gathering that is strictly alcohol-free. Only sodas and coffee are allowed. Remember, if you have given them consideration because they’re your friends, then they would also support you in your decision to stay sober.

At the party, stay away from the drinks section. This will prevent you from getting triggered by the sight of drinks and people enjoying them.

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