Nowadays, where we are inching more and more towards an individualistic society, it is always refreshing to help someone out.
Upon reading the title, many might bat an eye, saying just because someone decided to get sober doesn’t mean we have to turn our life upside down to accommodate them.
Truth be told, there is nothing wrong with this statement. Yes, one should look out for themselves, but this doesn’t mean you should completely ignore the needs of others. Or, worse, making any form of mockery towards their journey. Let’s ensure that is not where the world is heading.
That being said, if you are here to find the right way to help your recently sober friend, you have reached the right place. This excerpt below will discuss the different sober fun you and your friend can help with.
As someone still recovering, everything around them is already overwhelming; they certainly do not need their friend to add to it.
So, as a friend, if you are willing to be a little cooperative and make your sober friend comfortable, you are truly doing god’s work.
Keep reading to find out more!
What Are They Dealing With
Making any plan is easier when you have all the information in your hand. Here is what you need to know about a friend who has just been released from a sober rehabilitation program.
• They are doing much better than the last time you saw them.
• For a month or more, they have been in a calm and serene environment, which means they are likely to be overwhelmed by the high stimulation from reality. This is why they try to spend most of their time indoors.
• Yes, they still have some urge to relapse to their old ways. Being anywhere near alcohol could be dangerous for them.
• They are still continuing therapy but also looking for support from their friends.
Now that you know what they are going through, we will proceed with how you can support their journey.
Helping Out Your Sober Friend
Yes, your effort and support mean everything to them.
1. Talk To Them
There is a lot they are feeling, which is putting a heavy weight on their daily lifestyle. Not that they hate seeing their reality with sober eyes, but it can sometimes get too much to handle.
This is why they need someone to talk to. Someone should be by their side when they need to rant about the pain. Yes, a therapist will understand, but they even insist on having a friend who can understand them personally.
Before you jump on being that one person they call, remember it is a big responsibility. So, take the necessary precautions because you cannot leave them hanging when it gets too overwhelming.
A good way to manage this would be to be a sharer too. Have a conversation about each other’s difficult days and find solutions together rather than you solely being their therapist.
2. Give Them Alternatives
Sometimes, rather than deleting the item completely from life, it is better to give them alternatives. Plus, just because they are sober doesn’t mean they shouldn’t enjoy parties and get-togethers like before.
You can always host sober parties!
They can have fun games, good food, and the best non-alcoholic bitters to accompany the fancy Hors d’oeuvre. This is a great way to show your friend that there are other ways to get joy and adrenaline from alcohol.
However, when you are hosting such a party, remember to give a fair warning to the other attendees. They shouldn’t be disappointed for not having alcohol at the party. Mention the term ‘sober’ in big capital letters.
Yes, there will be attendees enthusiastic to attend such an event, do not worry! Especially when they learn how to use non-alcoholic bitters, the deliciousness, and the benefits of these drinks.
3. Do Not Force Them Into Anything
Helping out a sober friend doesn’t automatically mean you must also take on the sober life. It simply means accommodating some time for them and not abandoning them for their lifestyle choices.
That being said, even after the rehabilitation program, the patient shouldn’t be near alcoholic parties for at least six months. So, do not invite them to such parties for the sole reason of accompanying you and not drinking.
They might often agree with the fear of losing another friend because they cannot accompany them anywhere. However, there is no point in testing their patience in the matter; they are already dealing with enough.
Try to enjoy these alcoholic parties on your own, and go for sober brunches or picnics with them.
4. Be Their Cheerleader
Yes, there will be times when they falter or bring about the term moderation in the picture. You have to be their biggest cheerleader, always advocating their growth to them. Try to encourage their new journey and praise them for their growth.
You can sign them up for an AA meeting as they have sober coaches who used to suffer from alcohol addiction themselves. Their stories will inspire your friend to stick to the sober path and walk toward the other side of the light.
You might also need to be strict and be prepared for tiny interventions whenever you can, especially during the mark of three months. Therapists often call this the time of the post-recovery relapse period. You have to be extra careful and strict to help them cross the threshold.
Think About It!
It is not that easy to be the emotional support of someone who is dealing with a period of mental confusion and physical discomfort.
You sometimes have to be careful with your choice of words so that you do not trigger anything.
Plus, that emotional support can also look overwhelming for you. So, ensure you have the mental resilience for this responsibility and you are overall ready to take it upon.
