by Erin Vallely, CANDLE Administrative Assistant

Although the holidays are most closely associated with family and friend gatherings, it can also be a difficult time for people who have a history of substance misuse.  For people practicing sobriety from alcohol, cannabis, opioids, and other substances, the temptation to use these substances can be overwhelming, especially at gatherings where drugs or alcohol are present.  While internal discipline is important, external support is equally critical.  If you know someone in your life who is practicing sobriety, here are some tips on how to create sober holiday gatherings and activities: 

• Talk About It: Talk to the person and find out what will make them most comfortable.  Some folks are comfortable with other people using substances around them as long as they are not pressured to participate.  Others will feel safest if the gathering is completely substance free.  Be sure to communicate your sober space expectations with everyone who will attend as well. 

• Lock It Up: If you have alcohol, cannabis, opioids, or other dangerous substances in your home, get a locking cabinet or box to store them in.  Out of sight, out of mind can go a long way in helping people resistant temptation.  It also helps keep children safe from accidentally ingesting something they should not. 

• Drink Alternatives: Replace traditional alcoholic beverages with a variety of non-alcoholic options.  As the sober movement has grown, many stores have nonalcoholic wines, beers, and mocktail mixes.  You can also set up a fancy soda and flavored water station to avoid anything reminiscent of alcohol. 

• Check Recipes: Some traditional holiday recipes, from appetizers to desserts, include alcohol or cannabis.  Go through everything you plan to make and make any adjustments you need to in order to remove the substance from the recipe.  You may be able to simply leave it out, or you may need to find new recipes to try. 

• Assess Public Activities: Consider your family and friends’ holiday traditions and determine if they are still inclusive to everyone.  For example, if you and your cousins usually do a holiday bar crawl, shift to doing a holiday coffee shop crawl.  Anything you do when consuming substances can be done soberly. 

• Religious Observance Adaptations: If alcohol is usually involved in your religious celebrations, talk to your religious leader about the importance of considering non-alcoholic alternatives.  For example, wine can be replaced with grape juice.  Talk to your religious leaders about making changes and explaining the inclusivity that comes with permanently switching to sober alternatives.   

Making these simple changes can mean the difference between someone feeling safe and feeling unloved.  Hosting sober holidays is incredibly easy with a few simple adjustments.  By supporting people’s sobriety, you are showing them that their wellbeing is your top priority.  CANDLE is here to support you in making your holidays sober friendly.   

To learn more or to get involved with the coalition, visit our website at candlecoalition.org.