No alcohol November is an attempt to enter the Christmas season with the most health benefits of living sober. With the winter holidays around the corner, no alcohol November is the best time to cut down drinking. Winter comes with increased social activities, which are often accompanied by heavy drinking. For those who wish to stay sober, it can be challenging to be around alcohol. You only need one drink, and everything will start falling apart.
If you find it hard to stay sober during no alcohol November, your best option is to find professional help from a reputable alcohol detox center in Ohio, like Midwest Detox Center.
Tips to Stay Sober During No Alcohol November
If you have recovered from alcohol addiction, you understand the effort it took to get sober. Now you will want to do everything to prevent a relapse. Some people may advise you to avoid drinking and going to meetings. However, sober living in Ohio is not that straightforward. Some of the strategies that you need to learn to stay sober during no alcohol November include:
Identify and Avoid Triggers
If you think that you will drink if you attend a particular function, do not go. You can call your friends later and organize another meeting at a different location. Places and people that you associate with can be triggering. Your brain creates a connection between your environment and how it feels to drink. Start by understanding your internal and external triggers. Some of the common triggers include:
- Stress
- Places that result in cravings
- People who are still drinking
- Financial problems
- Relationship problems
Once you identify your biggest triggers, create a plan on how to avoid them. If you unknowingly find yourself in a risky place. Plan your exit strategy before you get cravings. For instance, you can give an excuse to leave.
Stay Active During No Alcohol November
Exercising is essential for people who are trying to stay sober. Reputable addiction treatment programs in Ohio also include exercise in their recovery plans. Moreover, addiction affects your physical health. As such, you will want to prioritize self-care if you are going to have a successful no alcohol November. Exercising is also an excellent replacement for drinking. Instead of organizing a night out with friends, plan for a yoga class or an afternoon jog. Some of the best ways to stay active include:
- Regular exercise
- Making time for recreational activities and hobbies
- Getting adequate sleep
- Practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation
- Visiting a museum
- Taking a class
Focus on Healthy Relationships
Family and friends’ support is essential when avoiding alcohol. Family dynamics can either lead you to alcohol problems or keep you from relapse. If you find it difficult to build a strong relationship with your family, family therapy in Ohio can help you feel more comfortable. Consider looking for new friends who can relate to your problem or join a support group. If you have an unsupportive company or a drug-dealing friend you have known for years, step away from them and avoid places where they hang out. Do not feel guilty for leaving a relationship that is not serving you.
Why You Should Stay Sober During No Alcohol November
For some people, avoiding alcohol is about focusing ahead instead of hanging on to the past. Staying sober is an excellent way for you to feel empowered. Holidays also work against your health interests. Apart from alcohol temptations, you may find yourself stuffing too much sugar, fat, or unfriendly foods in your body. Sobriety means that you can make healthy eating decisions that will make you want to celebrate.
Learn More About No Alcohol November at Midwest Detox Center
Recovery from alcoholism is a lifelong process. Detox can help you get sober initially. However, it is up to you to maintain sobriety. Our Midwest Detox alumni program can help you with the aftercare support you need for sober living in Ohio.
Call Midwest Detox Center today at 833.647.0392 or contact us online and let us help you maintain sobriety during and after no alcohol November.