When someone is actively struggling with addiction, they may find that substance misuse consumes much of their free time. They view things like entertainment, fun, and socialization in connection with substance misuse. Eventually, they may reach the point when they can no longer picture themselves having a good time without engaging in drugs or alcohol. This is why sober outings while in treatment are such an important part of beginning to be able to picture life in recovery.

At The Kimberly Center, we recognize the fact that part of the healing process requires going outside the walls of our facility. This is why, as a part of treatment, our clients attend sober outings. This will help them begin to see how they can enjoy life without drugs or alcohol.

What Are Sober Outings?

Sober outings are simply trips outside of the treatment center that allow clients to relax. They can have fun and enjoy life without being around drug or alcohol use. While we pride ourselves in our treatment facility, we know that everyone needs a change of pace once in a while.

Sober outings help provide a different perspective. They provide a chance to see that it is possible to enjoy yourself while being completely sober. These outings also allow clients to take their minds off of all the complex emotions they are going through for a little while.

Being able to relax and have fun from time to time is crucial for a person’s overall mental health. Nobody is meant to be serious or focused on work all the time. Sometimes taking the extra step to actually schedule time for fun is necessary to ensure that it really happens. Planned sober outings help accomplish this.

What Are the Benefits of Sober Outings?

There are many benefits to making time for sober outings while in treatment for substance misuse. One of them is the socialization aspect. The initial stages of recovery can feel isolating at times. Some people may feel as if there isn’t anyone that can really understand what they are going through. This can lead to feelings of loneliness.

Incorporating socialization is a major aspect of the recovery journey. As humans, we are social beings; we are not meant to go through life alone. We need the support of others just as they need ours.

Sober outings allow clients to interact with the public and also bond with one another in a unique way outside the walls of the facility. They have the opportunity to get to know one another better and learn from one another. This is a great opportunity for clients to bond over things that don’t have anything to do with substance use or recovery.

When clients have the opportunity to get to know one another on a deeper level, it will allow them to feel more comfortable around one another. As a result, they may feel more comfortable being vulnerable and opening up in a group setting in the future. Such things can really be helpful in the healing and recovery process.

Another benefit of sober outings is the fresh perspective they provide. It is one thing to imagine what a sober life outside of treatment could look like – it is another to actually experience it firsthand. Sober outings can help provide great hope for the future and greater motivation to stand firmly on the path of recovery.

Sober outings can also decrease overall stress levels. Constantly talking or thinking about recovery can become heavy on the mind. This is a great opportunity to simply let loose and relax for a while.

What Are Some Examples of Sober Outings?

The types of sober outings that are available will obviously vary from facility to facility. Options will depend on a facility’s location and surroundings. Staff members who organize these outings will consider the specific needs and interests of the group as a whole.

At The Kimberly Center, we are lucky enough to be located in the beautiful and sunny area of Fort Myers, Florida. We have access to the beach, which can be a great setting for sober outings. Not only do beach trips provide an opportunity to get out of the facility, but they allow clients to spend time outside and in the sun. Being able to soak up the sun will increase vitamin D levels and improve one’s overall mental health.

Other local attractions in our area include things like historic walking tours, a trip to the Everglades, or the IMAG History and Science Center. Other sober outings could include trips to shopping centers or to restaurants. All of these offer a change of pace and can really be beneficial in a client’s healing and recovery.

People often focus on the more challenging aspects of addiction recovery. While it is true that recovery can be difficult at times and require a lot of dedication and hard work, there are many positives along the way too. For one, clients get to learn more about themselves. They get to bond with one another and actively work on bettering themselves. Through sober outings, clients can begin to picture what their life without substance use can look like. If you or a loved one is ready to seek treatment for substance misuse, our team at The Kimberly Center is here to help. Call (855) 452-3683 today, and we will be happy to answer any questions you have.