Ensure you mingle and chat with others at the party. Try to avoid constantly mentioning you’re not drinking.

I realize that there are a myriad of events in life that will involve alcohol. Weddings, engagement parties, bachelor/bachelorettes, work events, holidays, Tuesday afternoons…The list goes on and on. My feeling is this, if there is a legitimate reason for me to be there, I have no problem going. Depending on the event, I have a set time of when I am going to leave. That can be 2 hours after I walk in or at midnight for example.

Bring a sober friend

Of course, it’s perfectly fine if you’re not drinking. However, you need to be careful that you don’t inadvertently alienate other party goers who are enjoying an alcoholic drink. Don’t make them feel uncomfortable about drinking in front of you — they have as much of a right to drink as you have to remain sober. As you will be sober, you’ll probably be how to survive summer parties and boozy bbqs singled out as the designated driver among your group of friends. With that in mind, you may have committed yourself to a very long night you can’t get out of if you feel the need to. For that reason, it’s probably best if you make your own way to the party and explain why to your friends, if you feel comfortable talking with them about your reasons.

You’re there for LIFE, not the hardship and accelerated death that active addiction brings with it. That perspective can really help keep us on the beam. We didn’t get sober to be boring as hell—we want to enjoy life to the fullest. This is a fundamental question that you have to be honest with yourself about as you consider your https://ecosoberhouse.com/ first forays back into nightlife. Do you legit think that you can go to a party and come home still sober? If not, you’re not ready, and there’s no shame in that. Don’t let negative fear rule your decision-making, but know that the small voice in your gut is real, and if it’s saying “stay the fuck home,” then stay the fuck home.

Include Icebreakers and Party Games

I cannot recommend 12 Keys at the River enough for those struggling with addiction. When you get home after the party, unwind and give yourself a treat, such as some of your favorite candy or dessert. Go over the night in your head, taking note of all the high points and of anything you could have done differently to make the evening more enjoyable.

I went to a party last night, where I and someone else were the only sober people. That being said, I felt awkward, detached and felt like I didn’t belong here – not to mention that I was new to these people. Being fixated on these made me feel increasingly sad and lonely – knowing I am doing the opposite to what I dare desired. It’s been almost 24 hours since, and I feel horrible. A friend might decide to opt-out of drinking alcohol alongside you, but you cannot assume or expect this. You must accept that you will be around alcohol in these settings. Coulter agrees that preparation is key when it comes to dealing with alcohol.