When overcoming alcoholism or substance abuse, those in recovery encounter countless triggers. And if ever there
were a daunting task for these individuals, it’s the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Many people face an uphill battle when March 17 rolls around, but if you prepare yourself, it’s possible to enjoy a sober St. Patty’s Day while doing more than just wearing green!
How to Stay Sober on St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patty’s Day presents a multitude of potential triggers to those in recovery. There’s typically an onslaught of advertising promoting alcohol-fueled celebrations, and even friends who support your sobriety may extend an unhealthy invitation due to the “special occasion.”There are plenty of alternative St. Patrick’s Day activities to enjoy, but you must first start with battling the urge.
The following tips will help in this endeavor:
- Avoid people and situations you know to be triggers.
- Have an “escape plan” to get away from situations that turn into temptation.
- Attend a meeting. Most 12-step programs offer gatherings on St. Patty’s Day.
- Call your sponsor. Sometimes a bit of support and accountability is all that’s necessary.
- Seek out sober events. Attending drunken festivals is a bad way to stay sober.
- Offer to do the designated driving if you spend time with friends.
No matter how committed you are to your sobriety, it’s important to never underestimate the tempting power of holidays that revolve around “cutting loose.” Have a game plan in place to stay sober on St. Patrick’s Day. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of the cure, and just that little ounce could be enough to keep your sobriety intact.
Sober St. Patrick’s Day Ideas
Just because you’re on the path to recovery doesn’t mean you can’t have fun on St Patrick’s Day. The holiday actually started out as a religious and cultural celebration, and there’s nowhere in the rulebook that says getting plastered is a requirement. Trust us, we’ve looked. With that in mind, consider enjoying the following sober St Patty’s Day activities:
- Enjoy Sober St. Patrick’s Day: The organization Sober St. Patrick’s Day hosts events around the world on March 17 each year.
- Attend a parade: Patty’s Day parades are exciting events held in nearly every major city. Ride in a float if you know someone!
- Start a family tradition: Friends and family should want you to succeed. Creating your own sober St. Patrick’s Day tradition (e.g., a cookout, a movie night, etc.) is a great way to bring everyone together.
- Enjoy Irish culinary classics: Patty’s Day is about enjoying all Irish culture, so take this opportunity to expand your palate!
- Watch Irish movies: There are some movies that come from Ireland, so make a day of watching them. The Departed, Brooklyn,and Snatch are just a few great choices.
- Go for a run: Cities across the world host marathons and half-marathons on St. Patty’s Day. Stay sober by running in one.
A sober St. Patrick’s Day isn’t an elusive pipe dream. There are plenty of activities you can enjoy without backsliding into alcohol or substance abuse. The luck of the Irish is with us on this day, and with that on our side, how can we fail? As they say in the old Ireland blessing, may the wind always be at your back — and the sun shine warm upon your face.
Stay Sober This St. Patrick’s Day!
Sobriety is a gift, but it’s not one that’s simply given. Overcoming alcoholism or drug abuse is a constant battle, and some days will understandably prove more difficult than others. Staying sober on St. Patrick’s Day may seem like an impossible mountain to climb, but countless individuals in recovery reach the summit every year while still having a blast.
Take these tips to heart for a fun and sober holiday, and if you’re just getting started on the road to recovery, contact us today at Transformations Treatment Center to learn how we can help.
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