GeneralTips for Staying Sober and Avoiding Relapse on Vacation

Many people worldwide are struggling with substance use disorder. The good news is that various treatment options are available. However, relapses are common, especially during vacations, and staying sober while on vacation can be daunting and frustrating, to say the least. We’ve provided helpful tips for staying sober and avoiding relapse on vacation.

Avoid risky situations.

One way to protect your sobriety is to avoid risky situations during your vacation. Be aware of potential triggers that may lead to temptation. This means avoiding situations (or places) where the temptation to drink alcohol or take illicit drug substances is high. It’s common for many people to attend parties that open them up to the risk of relapse, as they often rely on drugs or alcohol to have fun while on vacation. However, there are many different clean and healthy ways to have fun. One trick is to bring loved ones along who can keep you company. You can stay back in your hotel room and enjoy nonalcoholic drinks or experience all the fun the locals have to offer that doesn’t involve the use of substances.

Another tip is to choose a hotel that’s family-friendly. This means late-night parties and substance abuse are out of the picture. Finding the best hotel has become less overwhelming in the wake of digitalization. If you’re planning a vacation in Spain or anywhere in Europe, for example, a simple Google search for “Europe hotels” will help you find a suitable European hotel with guest safety measures. If you’re on a tight budget, consider booking a private room to find contemporary luxury hotels with the best rates.

Consider rehab programs

You can find support through your family members, who can be advocates of your sobriety, but remember that temptations can be more difficult to cope with during vacations. That’s why it’s important to find people who love you and support your sobriety.

If you’d rather avoid family members, it helps to find a peer support group. Better still, consider going to an Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meeting or signing up for an outpatient program.

Again, this requires a little online research. Let’s say you’re taking a trip to Phoenix, Arizona: Take ample time and search for rehabs in Phoenix, Arizona, that offer outpatient treatment. Unlike an inpatient program, an outpatient program allows you to go in for treatment without disrupting your vacation. Besides treatment services, a typical inpatient rehab center provides support services for people struggling with alcohol and drug addiction. Don’t hesitate to show your gratitude and love to people who support your sobriety.

Practice self-care

We understand the need to turn to drugs or alcohol when you’re lonely, upset, or feeling down. However, do your best to maintain your focus on staying happy and healthy regardless of what you feel. Engage in activities that take the focus away from you and remove unhealthy thoughts from your head. Learn to pamper yourself with care and love. Self-care also entails maintaining healthy sleeping habits and getting rid of negative relationships.

Try as much as possible not to be judgemental or hard on yourself whenever you feel the urge to drink alcohol or use drugs. Take the initiative and plan fun activities during your vacation like yoga, massages, spa treatments, hiking, swimming, or fishing and consider paying for a gym membership if the hotel you are staying in has a standard gym.

There are many health benefits associated with participating in physical activities. In addition to burning calories, exercising can boost your wellness and overall health and help to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can also help relieve stress and tension tied to anxiety.

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