How to Support a Sober Loved One Over the Holidays

I’ve written a number of posts about how to get through the holidays as a sober person, but I don’t think I’ve ever written a post about how to support a sober loved one over the holidays. If a loved one in your life is sober, it’s important to remember that the holidays can be very stressful and triggering times for them. There are many ways you can support your loved one during this time. Here are some ways:

1. Check in on them

   Most people don’t know how difficult it is to be sober, and especially sober over the holidays. With the constant parties, alcohol, and socializing, consuming alcohol is a central part of our culture around the holidays. Check in on your loved one and ask how they are doing and if there is anything you can do to support them.

2. Plan a sober outing

   Plan a sober outing for your loved one to show your support for their sobriety. Ask them what they would most enjoy doing and plan a time to make it happen.

3. Be a sober buddy

   If there’s an event that your loved one is anxious about attending because of people drinking, but they have to attend, then offer to go with them, sober. If they have another sober person with them, they won’t feel so alone, isolated, or like “they are the only one”. It will feel comforting for them to know that someone else is sober too.

4. Be mindful of your own alcohol use around them

   If you are hosting an event at your house, and you want your loved one to attend, consider making it a sober event, or schedule it at a time when most people won’t be drinking. It’s important to remember that being around any alcohol can trigger using thoughts and cravings for your loved one.

I hope these tips are helpful if you have a sober loved one in your life, and want to know more about how to support them during the holidays. Stay well and healthy and reach out anytime!