Overcoming Sobriety Fears in a Drinking Culture
Live in a big city, attend a college with a drinking culture, or have friends who enjoy spending time at the local pub? The pressure to drink alcohol can be intense. Whether you have control or not, achieving sobriety is often hindered by fear; if you are facing addiction, overcoming sobriety fears is important for the success of California alcohol rehab or any attempt at living sober.
People who consider sobriety may fear:
- Losing friends
- Being scrutinized
- Becoming less interesting
- Missing out on the fun
- Not having a coping mechanism
Indeed, some aspects of American drinking culture can reinforce these fears. One does not have to give in to peer pressure, however, and it’s still possible to enjoy life without drinking. The trick is to find sober activities that involve friends.
Find Social Activities That Don’t Involve Drinking
If all you do together is go to parties and bars or participate in pub crawls, there will always be alcohol. Life can still be interesting without it. Look for social events and occasions where people are sober. There’s less pressure, and you can focus on the topic of interest to drive your confidence, rather than alcohol to inhibit your social fears.
Avoid Situations That Make You Give In to Cravings
The pressure to drink is greatest in situations where people are drinking. If you avoid such social settings, people won’t ask why you’re not drinking. The cravings might still be there, but a lack of alcohol-centric stimuli will help you not go over the top. Being sober helps you stay clear and focused. The activities you choose as an alternative can be thoroughly enjoyed if you pursue them. Let your true friends know of your sober intentions, and they may not just appreciate your honesty but remain by your side.
Pick Up a New, Invigorating Hobby
Hobbies tap into your interests and contribute to your feeling more gratified. Plus, you and a friend can spend time on a hobby or attend events related to it without wasting hours at a bar. A hobby can prove you are creative and relaxed without alcohol. It also takes your mind off drinking and occupies time that would otherwise be spent doing so. Check out folk dancing, hiking, movie appreciation clubs, participatory sports, weightlifting, gaming, and other hobbies like photography, collecting, and volunteering.
Include Sober Friends in a Support Group
Your sober friends will better understand your needs if they’re included. They may have chosen not to drink for a reason and will support you in any way they can. By feeling more included in their circle, you may feel less pressure and fear. Achieving a fuller life with California alcohol rehab is, therefore, more possible.
Focus on Your Own Health
Some people don’t feel well when drinking alcohol; others must wait until a hangover passes before rejoining the world. It’s not a secret that alcohol can affect your physical, mental, and emotional health and increase the risks of various diseases. Alcohol can affect the brain, heart, liver, and immune system. Concentrate on the health benefits of sobriety, and your goals are easier to attain.
Are your sobriety fears and alcohol addiction in control instead of you? Yellowstone Recovery offers a variety of California alcohol rehab treatment options, including Experiential Therapy, family support, and residential and outpatient treatment. Contact us today for more information and to get on the path to sobriety without fear.
