Vacations are meant to be a time for relaxation and rejuvenation. For many in early recovery, these times can create stressful and unwanted environments. Vacations that were most likely a time to drink and party now have a different feel during recovery. Many people find they have more genuine fun being sober during their vacations because they have authentic connections and remember their experiences more. While being sober on vacation is more enjoyable. But, when people are used to drinking during these times, it can be hard to break an old habit. After all, these are times meant to relax and escape – there’s no room for stress; so here are some ways to make your vacations carefree! Contact us today to learn more about our relapse prevention program.
1. Plan ahead.
- Ease into your vacations: Start with short and local weekend getaways to build up your comfortability while away from home. Then, after a few weekend trips, you can begin longer trips further away from home.
- Seek out healthy settings: When you are able to choose the location of your vacation, try to find areas that emphasize wellness rather than partying. For example, there are a variety of hotels that offer spa services that focus on relaxation and wellness. Even during events where it isn’t entirely possible to choose your destination, it might be possible to choose where you stay. With apps like Airbnb, it is easier to find lodging that feels safer than say an all-inclusive resort.
2. Take a Preventative Approach
- Look for local support: It is always a good idea to plan out your meetings before you start your trip. Knowing where meetings are and when you’ll be able to attend them is smart. There might even be meetings in places you wouldn’t think. For instance, some people have found comfort in attending group meetings on cruises and even abroad – finding people who can relate and support each other during potentially susceptible times.
- Remove any obstacles before your trip: For example, when you book your reservation, you can let the concierge and front desk clerks know you are in recovery. This way, they can remove any alcohol in the mini-fridge and refrain from recommending any activities that revolve around drinking.
- Create an emergency exit strategy: In the event of a trigger or you feel as though you are going to be in a position that might jeopardize your recovery, it is always best to have an exit strategy. This can be something written down or told to a loved one on the trip that will help you escape these dangers. An exit strategy might begin with having a designated safe space. Also, your sponsor should be aware of your trip and in the event of an emergency, be available to talk. By having a safe space and a person to talk with, you can limit your chances of falling into a situation you wouldn’t normally know how to escape.
- Write down your coping strategies: Some people like to keep a list of 10 coping strategies and save them to their favorited photos or even their home screen. It can be difficult to think of strategies in a stressful moment – so having one with you gives you several options in a pinch.
3. Care for yourself while traveling
- Always make sure you are never too hungry, angry, lonely or tired. If you prioritize these things you can reduce your relapse triggers. Therefore, always prioritize your sleep while on vacation and remember to pack healthy snacks to carry with you. The moment you start to feel irritable, try to realize it and excuse yourself from the gathering: take a short nap, walk, or call a sponsor or trusted loved one.
- Keep yourself engaged. A great way to do this is to buy an audible and/or book before you leave. This way, during any dull and boring moment, you have to use these things to help distract you from boredom and avoid going to bars at the airport.
- Ask For Help: if you are struggling at an airport or hotel, go to the concierge or ticket counter and ask for a friend of Bill W.; many vacation spots and airports will have someone in recovery who can lend their support.
- Take advantage of technology: Download inspirational books, music, meditation apps and podcasts that will be soothing and can redirect you if you feel triggered.
- Give yourself an “accountabilibuddy. When traveling without anyone in recovery, tell your sponsor and/or other support people where you are going and to check in during the trip and when you return. Holding yourself accountable can be a powerful tool to keep your sobriety in check.
4. Socialize Safely.
- Always remember you can say “no.” If you ever feel uncomfortable or feel as though your sobriety might be at risk avoid the situation altogether. The bottom line is your recovery is your top priority.
- Dinners and events are inevitable in many vacations. When attending a function such as a wedding, try turning your glass over, so the wait staff knows not to fill it. It can also be a good idea to keep a non-alcoholic drink in your hand so no one offers to buy you a drink.
Vacations during early recovery are absolutely possible, they just require a little more effort during the first few. Use these techniques to help plan your trip and vacations will start to feel more enjoyable and relaxing – how they should! I guarantee that once you become more comfortable in navigating these experiences you will come to appreciate your time much more in recovery.
