Part of the reason why people are afraid of seeking treatment for substance abuse is that they’re afraid they won’t be able to have fun without drugs or alcohol. Frankly, it’s not hard to see why that is sometimes. Our society really likes to perpetuate the myth that drugs and alcohol – especially alcohol – make a good time even better.
Alcohol and marijuana can help you relax and enjoy yourself, while stimulants like cocaine and meth give you the energy to keep partying. These are just myths, but there are plenty of people who bought into them enough to overindulge and abuse drugs and alcohol. The truth is that you can have fun without drugs and alcohol, and a big part of many drug treatment programs is learning how to do that again.
Remembering a Life Before Addiction
Even though you might not remember it too well, you did have a life before you started using drugs and alcohol. There were likely hobbies you enjoyed, friends you liked to be around, and other great things that had nothing to do with being drunk or high. Think back to what made those things so enjoyable for you and see if you can go back to them. It is possible that you’ve outgrown some of those things, but you should be able to find something that will remind you that not only can you have fun without drugs and alcohol, but that you once did all the time.
Finding Hobbies
One great way to have fun without resorting to drugs and alcohol is to find a hobby that you enjoy. This could be something that you used to do before becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol, or it could be something new for you. Think about what you enjoy doing or what interests you and see if you can explore it further. Things like drawing, exercising, or writing can be done on your own, but if you want to engage in group activities, there are bound to be plenty of groups near you that hold plenty of sober events. You should be able to find most of them online, so check them out if you’re looking for a fun sober evening.
Avoiding Events With Drugs and Alcohol
Sometimes, the best way to stay sober is to avoid situations where you might be tempted to use drugs and alcohol. For many people, this means avoiding parties and other events where there might be drugs and alcohol. You’re likely to be surrounded by the kinds of people who think they need to be under the influence some something to have fun, and that will be difficult for you. Instead of going to these events, try to find parties and other events where there are no drugs or alcohol present.
This might be easier said than done if your social life once centered around drinking and getting high, but there are fun events out there that are completely sober. Look to your friends who don’t use drugs and alcohol and see what they like to do for fun. If you don’t have many friends, reach out to people you know from support groups and recovery programs. After all, they’re likely to be in the same situation as you in a lot of ways.
Staying Sober Around Drugs and Alcohol
Of course, you might not always be able to avoid being around drugs and alcohol, so you need to know how to abstain when you do go to an event where people are drinking or using drugs. You’re going to have to use your best judgment here; if you don’t think you’re ready to be around drugs or alcohol, don’t go to those events. When you feel comfortable going to an event where there is going to be alcohol or other substances, make it clear that you don’t want to use.
Ask if there are any non-alcoholic options for drinks, and request that people don’t use any drugs around you. If you’re worried about everyone using or drinking around you, invite a sober friend. Just having another sober person to talk to is often enough to enjoy a party even if everyone else is using or drinking. Of course, don’t be afraid to leave if you start to feel uncomfortable or tempted to indulge. For more information about living a sober lifestyle or overcoming an addiction to drugs and alcohol, contact us today. We will be glad to answer any questions you might have and help you find a treatment program that works for you. Call us today at 866-963-7200.
