Independence Day is one of the highlights of summer. It means fun in the sun, backyard BBQs, fireworks, and friends. For people in recovery, it might also be a little stressful. As you find your balance in your new way of life, discovering new ways to celebrate while staying sober is important. Life after treatment in an alcohol rehab center must be different from your life before treatment, but you don’t have to skip out on the celebrations.

If you or someone you love needs an alcohol rehab program or need support at any stage of recovery, reach out to the staff at the Northern Illinois Recovery Center. We offer sober living programs designed to empower people at any stage of their mental health or addiction journey. For more information, call 855.786.1978 or fill out an online intake form here.

How to Enjoy Sober Holidays

Before recovery, you might not have given thought to how you were going to celebrate holidays. It’s easy to go with the flow and do what everyone else is doing. But life in recovery is different. Instead of falling into old patterns or traditions, you need to be thoughtful of how these habits either support or threaten your sobriety. Make a plan to spend holidays with people who are in recovery or who wholeheartedly support yours. If you attend an event where alcohol will be offered, bring a sober buddy and make sure you can leave whenever you need to.

When it comes to sober celebrations, you don’t have to skimp on the fun just because you’re not drinking. Get dressed up. Enjoy special food and non-alcoholic beverages. Listen to music, dance, sing, and make memories. Life in recovery does not have to be dull–in fact, you will be more present than ever. Spend time with friends and family, develop your relationships, and learn more about what makes life–and the holidays–fun and meaningful for you.

How to Celebrate Independence Day Without Derailing Your Recovery

There are many ways to celebrate Independence Day without drinking. Some fun ideas include:

• Host a sober BBQ
• Go to the beach
• Have special, fancy non-alcoholic drinks available
• Spend time with friends and family who support your recovery
• Dress up in head-to-toe stars and stripes or red, white, and blue
• Start a new tradition–go bowling, go camping, go to the movies

You do not have to stay at home hiding on these special days. Instead, gather up people who support your sobriety and have fun. Letting go of old traditions is easier when you have something new and fun planned.

Staying Committed After Alcohol Rehab

Staying sober for the rest of your life takes a huge amount of commitment. Right after you complete an alcohol rehab program, you might feel very committed to lifelong sobriety. It can be difficult to maintain this level of commitment for life. Some tips for maintaining a commitment for the long haul include:

• Make goals that aren’t related to recovery–set small, achievable goals around self-improvement, not just about sobriety
• Give back–find a way to contribute to your community and help others
• Create a long-term plan–think of something big you want to happen in the next five years, such as learning a new language, visiting a certain number of states or countries, or finishing school

Most importantly, remind yourself of why you are in recovery. Do you want to live a healthier life? Avoid negative consequences? To be a better, more present parent, student, or friend? When you experience a setback, keep your focus on why you have chosen a new life in recovery. Find ways to celebrate the holidays when they come around, but don’t forget to celebrate your strength every day.

Learn More About Alcohol Rehab at the Northern Illinois Recovery Center

If you or someone you love need a supportive alcohol rehab program, please reach out to the staff at the Northern Illinois Recovery Center. We offer programs designed to empower people at any stage of addiction or recovery, including:

• Outpatient drug rehab center
• Sober living program
• Women’s addiction treatment center
• Men’s addiction treatment center
• Young adult addiction treatment center
• Addiction aftercare
• 12 step program

If you are ready to get the supportive treatment you deserve, call us today at 855.786.1978 or fill out an online intake form here.