The idea of summer fun can be scary for those who are new in recovery. Many of the events in the summer including parties, bbq’s, and vacations where others are drinking and using substances which can often be a trigger and can cause cravings to use.
It’s recommended to honor your recovery and check in with yourself and others before walking into a trap that could jeopardize your sobriety. Having a supportive friend accompany you can be a great idea when attending high risk situations. Being sure you have a way out and not relying on someone who may not want to leave when you do can be a problem. Practicing skills such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, reality testing, rehearsing the outcome, and voicing your emotions can be helpful in developing resistance to some of these triggers.
Having fun can be a challenge and trying new things or activities you enjoyed in the past is encouraged. Exploring is a great idea and hopefully can bring about new hobbies and activities to enjoy! Here is a brief list of some fun things to do:
- Play laser tag
- Learn to rock climb
- Go bowling
- Play basketball (1 on 1)
- Cook out
- Fly a kite
- Go scuba diving
- Walk through a mall
- Take a hobby class
- Rent a movie
- Have a picnic
- Walk on the beach
- Go to a concert
- Go camping
- Go to the beach, etc…
Kristin Colton CATC II
CD Counselor
AToN Center 888-535-1516
