Do you have an upcoming trip, but are worried all the changes in routine may affect your sobriety? Read on to learn tips for staying sober while traveling.
Studies have shown that less than half of those who achieve a year of sobriety will relapse.
That’s positive news for those who are entering sobriety. But for those in recovery, there are still many challenges on the course to staying sober.
Traveling presents obstacles and new environments that may interrupt your daily routine.
Luckily, there are ways to avoid these traps. Here are five crucial tips for staying sober while traveling.
1. Stay Connected
A network is a very important aspect of sobriety. Make plans to stay connected to your loved ones and friends on your trip. This will help you maintain your support system wherever you are.
If you’re an alcoholic who’s a part of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), make sure to keep in touch with your sponsor. Any person in recovery can touch base with a therapist or sober friend while on the road.
A supportive network will look out for you and keep you accountable for your actions. If you can take them with you, that’s even better.
2. Maintain a Routine
The greatest challenge to traveling while sober is maintaining your routine. But, it can be done with dedication.
If you write in a journal every day, make sure to carve out some time to still do so. In general, make sure to practice self-care and don’t neglect your needs. Healthy eating, exercise, and proper rest are essential.
3. Keep Busy
Staying busy while you travel is the best distraction. It will help you avoid downtime, boredom, and too much empty space.
Make sure to plan in advance to stay active and engaged. Planned fun activities are great for any trip, whether it’s for business or pleasure. You can always take a city tour, visit a museum, or explore interesting neighborhoods.
4. Create Coping Strategies
Stress is a major element of traveling. Foreign environments, transportation challenges, and new circumstances can lead to anxiety. That’s why it’s important to have strategies ready for potential stress, instead of resorting to drugs or alcohol.
This may come in the form of meditation or some other kind of mental exercise. Whatever you use in your daily life will be helpful on your trip.
Also, prepare to cope with the added temptations of a new destination. Depending on where you’re headed, opportunities to drink may arise in various places. Be ready to avoid them or find a new setting.
5. Find a Temporary Recovery Network
You may find yourself staying at your new destination for an extended period of time. In this case, it’s easy to find another recovery network in a new city or town. Recovery meetings, such as AA, are held all over the world.
Local groups will welcome you wherever you are. They’ll help you stay grounded while you’re uprooted during travel. This center offers many effective treatment options and services for those in sobriety.
More Tips on Staying Sober
Staying sober is an ongoing process that requires patience and perseverance. When it comes to travel, these strategies will help you in your recovery and allow you to maintain a clear mind. To read more tips on living a healthy lifestyle, check out our blog.
