"Telling someone they are 'boring' for not drinking is both incorrect and unsupportive. Most sober people have a variety of ways to socialise that don't involve alcohol, and that doesn't make them any less fun," she says.
“You're no fun.” Alcohol does not make someone “fun.” The person as a whole is “fun” and just because they don't want to drink doesn't mean they can't relax and enjoy themselves.
“How can I support you and make it easier?” Each person is different in how they like to be supported, and will likely have different needs, based upon how much they were drinking and why they decided to stop. This kind of open-ended question allows your friend to communicate what they need in that particular moment.
The statement, “I'm proud of you” is a powerful reminder of how far they've come. Let them know that you are proud of their commitment to staying sober. Be sure to also recognize and acknowledge that recovery is not easy. A sobriety anniversary should be treated like a birthday, anniversary, or similar events.
When you're sober, you'll have more time to focus on yourself and your well-being. You can engage in physically and mentally healthy activities, such as regular exercise, eating nutritious meals, and taking care of your mental health. You'll also be able to regulate your emotions better without drugs or alcohol.
Unless drinking is an integral aspect of your event, it's best to avoid alcohol in front of your newly sober loved one. Not drinking will show your support and help prevent your friend or family member from feeling socially isolated by remaining sober throughout the event.
Staying away from alcohol or drugs can be tough. However, being sober doesn't mean you have to stop having fun. There are plenty of activities you can do that don't involve substances and can actually be more enjoyable without them.
Suggest food or other non-alcoholic alternatives in a friendly manner. Do not argue, but don't back down either. Once you inform the guest that they are cut-off, do not waver from that decision. Calmly state the reason why you can no longer serve them alcoholic drinks.
For others, it leads to destructive behaviors. Some choose sobriety because of medical conditions. Some don't like the way alcohol makes them feel. People who are pregnant or trying to conceive may avoid imbibing as well.
Good communication and encouraging someone to talk about why they drink can help someone quit alcohol. Citing specific examples of the effects of someone's drinking are more effective than giving an ultimatum.
Something like, “hey, I would love to know more about the meetings you go to, what are they like?” Another one that I really appreciate is “If you feel comfortable sharing, I would love to know more about getting sober and the recovery world in general.” I think the most important piece of this is to respect what the ...
It's pretty normal to feel bored in early sobriety, but it's kind of related to not being used to feeling calm or peace. The feeling of things being too quiet or empty does pass. Don't be scared. I promise you will have so much fun in life without alcohol.
Dating a non-drinker might feel different, but it's not an impossible challenge. And it's important to remember that the challenge is much bigger for them than for you.
Don't offer them a sip. Don't carelessly splash alcohol around. Finally, refrain from drinking whenever possible, particularly if your friend is fresh to the recovery process. In other words, don't be inconsiderate.
Just because someone is clean does not mean that they have treated their alcoholism. Stopping drinking is only the first part of an alcoholic's problem. They also have a problem with their mind, which works to avoid and be resistant to feelings of anger, fear, shame, loneliness, and guilt.
Toxic shame contributes to addiction because it causes people to develop skewed images of themselves that further motivate them to seek comfort in substances. Toxic shame can: Cause individuals to develop low self-esteem.
Drinker's remorse is a psychological phenomenon experienced by those who drink alcohol to excess. It is characterized by feelings of regret and guilt as the individual reflects on their behavior while under the influence, often feeling embarrassed and ashamed for their actions.
While shame is a natural offshoot of guilt and remorse, internalizing it in recovery is dangerous. When shame becomes part of your self-identity, it can prevent you from moving forward in recovery. A deep sense of shame sets up the broader feeling of unworthiness, of being unworthy of love, support, or help.
: marked by sedate or gravely or earnestly thoughtful character or demeanor. 3. : unhurried, calm. 4. : marked by temperance, moderation, or seriousness.