Being Sober Can Be Scary
Being sober or in recovery for Halloween can be more terrifying than some scary movies. If you’re new in recovery, having clear expectations for this holiday is sure to help you stay low on the fear factor. Halloween is one of the oldest holidays but celebrating sober might be a new concept for some. On Halloween people enjoy horror stories and horror movies as popular entertainment. As well as carving pumpkins to make jack-o-lanterns. Children dressed in costumes go trick-or-treating, which involves going door to door, knocking and calling out “trick or treat,” and receiving candy in return.
Celebrate Halloween, Safely
Trick-or-treat and Halloween are a day that so many kids and adults alike enjoy celebrating. It’s also a very well known party holiday with costume parties to include a buffet of alcoholic spirits. Bars and restaurants take the marketing opportunity and advertise their specials. Partying on Halloween is all but smacking you right in the face. Especially if you’re trying to be sober and in recovery.
For many people who have had challenges with alcohol and even drug use, Halloween is almost always an opportunity to party. But if you’re trying to stay sober, or refrain from drug use,you will need to approach this holiday quite differently.
Have a Plan and Commit to it
Whether you need to stay in or if you want to brave it out and about, having a plan is always a safe bet. Some of the things that you could do are:
- Have a pumpkin carving contest. Nothing says nostalgia like a jack-o’-lantern
- Hold a horror movie marathon with friends – pop up a few different kinds of popcorn, pour the hot cocoa and turn off the lights
- Host your own Halloween party – instead of cocktails, have mocktails. Mocktails are a fun way to celebrate and not need a designated driver!
- BYOB: Bring your own beverage. If you are going to a party and you know there will be alcohol, just put your favorite drink in a cup and call it a sober sipper. If anyone asks what’s inside, just tell them it’s a magic potion.
- Make or bake some spooky snacks. If you’re like me and love to bake, this is some thing you can do every weekend in October. A sweet way to stay busy.
- Go Trick or Treating with your kids or with a friend and their kids. Get out of the house and enjoy all of the different costumes you’ll see. a night you are sure to remember.
- Ask a sober friend to support you. Reach out and Spend some time with people that understand what you are going through.
Don’t Trick Yourself
No matter what you do it’s important that you plan ahead. When you know what to expect, it’s easier to respond and react safely. Have your coping skills ready and remember that or you can still have fun without getting high or getting drunk. The best part is you’ll wake up without a hangover. Stay safe this year and be prepared so that you don’t trick yourself into a treat that isn’t chocolate or candy.