The holidays are approaching, and sometimes the stress of all of the shopping, parties, and forced family fun feels impossible to tackle without a drink in hand. And sometimes, one drink can turn into a few too many. While alcoholic beverages tend to make an appearance at nearly every holiday get together and cozy night in front of the tree, if you’ve been longing to explore the world of sobriety, now is the time to put it to the test.
Whether it's to save face in front of coworkers or to experience more productive mornings, or maybe you just want to feel better overall, there are many benefits to sipping hot cocoas instead of hot toddies this year. Alcohol is dehydrating, interferes with sleep, and can significantly increase anxiety. And, you’re not the only one who longs to be rid of those nasty headaches, groggy mornings, and perhaps most importantly, wants to say goodbye to hangxiety.
Here are some tricks to getting through the holidays the sober way.
- Mocktails will be your best friend. People will tend to leave you alone if you have a drink in your hand, and you'll be less tempted to indulge while you're sipping on something of your own. Stock the family fridge with sparkling grape juice, and have a go-to order when out on the town. Shirley Temple, anybody?
- Be realistic. The biggest way to set yourself up for failure is to set unrealistic expectations for yourself. Saying you are never going to drink again will not get you as far as making a plan, say, to only have one glass of wine with dinner twice a week. Start with a small goal, such as not drinking for the month of December.
- Have some accountability buddies. Whether you make a promise to your cat you're not going to drink or enlist the help of a friend you can text when you’ve been offered a drink one too many times, having someone to share this journey with will make you more likely to stick to it.
- Have a response planned. Especially if you've not been one to turn down a drink in the past, it may seem that it’s easier to oblige than explain yourself. When grandma starts questioning why you aren’t taking the traditional post-meal tequila shot, respond with a short and sweet, “I’m on a 30 day cleanse,” or “I’m taking a break from alcohol,” if a “No, thanks” does not suffice. If an environment becomes too tempting or does not support your goals, remember that it is okay to leave.
- Plan sober activities. There are many ways to get into the holiday spirit without cracking a cold one. Invite friends or family to bake cookies, or get outside where drinking isn't associated with the activity. Remember, it’s hard to hold a drink while ice skating!
Whatever sparked your curiosity, whether it's to lose weight or because you've recognized you actually have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, or maybe it’s because the Sunday scaries just got too scary, remember your why.
If you wish to talk with a professional about your relationship with alcohol and the effects it may have on your health, schedule an appointment at NH+C. And, if you feel called to do so, may you find a new way to eat, drink, and be merry this holiday season.