A big issue when getting sober is going to large events where you know most people will be drinking. With the holidays coming up, this can be a really tough time for many of us who struggle with sobriety. Will people understand? Will they pressure you? Are you going to be triggered? While I don’t have all the answers, I do have some tips that may help. I should say that I am in no way a professional and this is not medical advice! But if you’d like some tips on how to get through a big event sober, keep reading.
My first big event sober
A little back story on myself, at the time I am writing this, I am over 1.5 years sober. When I decided to quit drinking, it was at the beginning of the pandemic. I was secluded in a small town, not going anywhere really, and definitely not socializing. My journey is a little different than some because I was able to build a strong sober foundation before I decided to socialize. My first big event wasn’t until this past October, my friend’s wedding. It was a beautiful day, but I definitely learned a lot! Here are my takeaways:
Before you go
I had some major anxiety about my first big event being sober. It was the fear of the unknown! To make the day-of feel a little less stressful, give yourself more time to get ready. Use this time to calm your nerves if you can. Take breaks while getting dressed, listen to music that makes you happy, do some meditation.
Bring a sober buddy
Having someone there who you can count on for support is really important, especially if it’s your first big event sober! Mine was my best friend. While she did have a few drinks, she was there to support me when I started to feel a little overwhelmed and was down to leave when I had reached my limit. Can you say #Blessed?
Non-alcoholic options
This was something I wish I had thought about more. There are TONS of non-alcoholic options out there! If you want to feel like you’re partaking without the actual effects of alcohol, ask your hosts if there are options and if you can bring your own. This is something I wish I did. I found that I missed having a special drink to toast with.
Know your limits
This is a BIG one. The most important point of all of them is: Know your limits. At the end of the day, your sobriety is more important than any event or party. If you start to feel overwhelmed, find a quiet place to catch your breath, take a breather outside, or even just go home. What I learned from my first event is that talking to drunk people can be draining. Once I was starting to get tired, out of old habits, I accidentally started reaching for people’s drinks. I didn’t drink any of them, thank god, but I knew that I had reached my limit and it was time to go.
I hope this post helped you! The first big event sober is a big deal and, while I know it can feel daunting, I know you can do it! If you’re curious about sobriety, click here for my post on dry months and here for my post about what I learned after one year of sobriety!
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