Michael Leach: Tips to help stay sober during July 4

The Fourth of July is an incredibly festive time. It is also America’s top beer-drinking holiday. An estimated $1 billion is spent on beer during the holiday. While every American is free to live their life, there are pitfalls associated with heavy drinking.

Holidays like July 4 can also be challenging for someone sober or in recovery from alcoholism or drug addiction. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, 16% of adults over 18 binge drink at least once per month in Nevada.

Fortunately, there are practical approaches that anyone can use to avoid relapse and enjoy the Fourth of July to its fullest.

“It is challenging at times to maintain sobriety, especially early on, yet with planning and utilizing different tools, nothing is impossible,” said Marcel Gemme of Addicted.org.

Consider some of the following tips to help stay sober this July Fourth holiday:

• Begin to recognize and identify relapse triggers. This could be particular situations or environments. It could also be an individual or a group of people. Once these are identified, avoiding, or managing them is much easier.

• Have a healthy way to navigate negative emotions or feelings attached to these triggers. Lean on support when needed – for example, 12-step meetings, a friend, or a family member.

• Bring sober friends to July 4 parties or attend sober gatherings if available. Consider bringing non-alcoholic drinks or mocktails to barbecues. This can help avoid those pesky relatives who insist you always have a drink in your hand.

• Avoid environments that promote binge drinking or recreational drug use. This is undoubtedly a recipe for disaster.

Finally, have an exit plan in place. Set yourself up so that you can do this easily if you have to leave. Do not feel obligated to remain in a situation that makes you feel uncomfortable.

The Fourth of July is about celebrating freedom in all its forms. Being from an addiction is a beautiful feeling. It also does not mean you stop having fun. Take this opportunity to create new memories and traditions. Spend quality time with friends and family. Celebrate Independence Day to the fullest.

Michael Leach has spent most of his career as a healthcare professional specializing in substance use disorder and addiction recovery. He is a certified clinical medical assistant and contributor to the healthcare website Recovery Begins.