With Thanksgiving right around the corner, we find ourselves looking back at the past while reflecting upon all that we’re grateful for. Although the holiday season is often viewed as a time of celebration, this time of year can still be challenging for many people. These struggles around the holiday season can be related to several factors. For instance, these difficulties might involve certain emotions attached to past memories of the holiday season. 

During this triggering time, it’s important for individuals in recovery to take proactive steps to maintain wellness. In prioritizing your health this time of year, there are many ways of celebrating a sober Thanksgiving while still having a very enjoyable time. 

Challenges During the Holiday Season  

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season. There are various reasons why someone with or without a history of substance misuse would have mixed emotions about this time of year. 

For some people, this could be the first Thanksgiving they spend without a loved one. They may cling to old memories and worry that the holidays will not be the same this year. Others may be dealing with serious challenges in life, such as financial trouble, a sick family member, or job loss. These challenges can make it difficult to get into the celebratory spirit or mindset of gratitude. 

For other people, this could be the first time they’re celebrating Thanksgiving sober since starting their recovery journey. They may be struggling with feelings of the unknown in terms of what triggers they may face. Moreover, they could be hesitant to attend their usual social celebrations this time of year, knowing substance use will likely be present at these gatherings. 

Whatever you’re feeling as you enter this holiday season, your feelings are valid. It’s possible to anticipate these emotions ahead of time and prepare for them without fearing them. Having a sober plan this holiday season can help you feel more equipped and prepared. You may even find yourself growing more in your recovery during this time of year. 

Coming Up With a Sober Plan 

Even if you feel like you’re at a great place in your recovery and aren’t worried about celebrating Thanksgiving sober this year, it can still help to come up with a plan. This way, you can be prepared for just about anything. You shouldn’t wait until a couple of days before the actual holiday to make this plan. Consider in advance where you’ll be going, what you’ll be doing, and who you’ll be spending your time with. This preparedness can help reduce chaos and stress while protecting your mental state. 

No matter where you’re at in your recovery journey, it’s always essential to spend the holidays surrounded by positive people who are going to be supportive of your sobriety. You don’t want to be around anyone associated with peer pressure or anyone who might jeopardize your recovery. 

You’ll also want to consider how you’re going to respond if you do experience temptations or urges. For instance, if you plan on traveling, check ahead of time to see where and when local support group meetings are held if you need to go to one. You may also want to check in with your therapist or reach out to a trusted friend about how you’re feeling. 

Consider Hosting Your Own Sober Thanksgiving 

Sometimes, a great way to reduce holiday-related anxiety involves hosting your own function at your home. Hosting your own sober Thanksgiving is a way for you to be more in control of your surroundings and less likely to experience unexpected temptations. 

Having your own gathering for a sober Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. Your sober Thanksgiving could include some close family members or a couple of friends. You could even arrange for this gathering to be a pitch-in type meal. This way, everyone only needs to bring one dish, and nobody has to stress about spending the whole day in the kitchen. 

When hosting your own sober Thanksgiving, be sure to let everyone know ahead of time that you won’t be engaging in any substance use during the event. If you’re not comfortable with anyone else engaging in substance use inside your home, make sure to let people know about that as well. 

Even though you won’t be serving drinking alcohol at this event, you may consider trying out a mocktail. There are plenty of seasonal, completely alcohol-free mocktails that are easy to make and fun to share. When checking online, you’ll find a wide variety of recipes! 

Finally, don’t be afraid to make time for yourself throughout this holiday season. Things can get very busy and chaotic. Make sure that you’re checking in with how you’re feeling, getting plenty of rest, and practicing self-care. 

It can feel daunting to prepare for celebrating a sober Thanksgiving, especially if it’s your first one. No matter how you’re feeling, your feelings are valid. Many people have a lot of complex emotions associated with the holiday season. It can help to come up with a plan ahead of time. Effective planning involves deciding what you’ll be doing, where you’ll be going, and who you’ll be spending your time with. This holiday season, be sure to surround yourself with positive people and be prepared to attend a support group meeting if temptations do arise. If you are currently struggling with a substance use disorder, our team at The Kimberly Center can help. Call (855) 452-3683 to learn more.