How To Avoid Alcohol Over The Holidays

For many people, the holiday season can be a difficult time of year, for all kinds of reasons. At the this time of year, many of us are invited to a lot of parties that often include alcoholic drinks. People drink more at this time of year for several reasons. They might decide to drink in order to feel more relaxed, to enjoy the taste, or because they feel under social pressure to drink. Some people drink to cope with the holidays, whereas others might use it as an excuse to drink more than usual. 

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There are some people who should avoid consuming alcohol all year round, but the holidays can make it feel much harder to say no. Women who are pregnant or or planning to get pregnant shouldn’t drink. Others who shouldn’t drink include:

• Children and adolescents

• Individuals of any age who can’t limit their drinking to moderate levels

• Peope who plan to drive, operate machinery, or take part in other actiivits the skill, coordination, or attention

• People taking prescipriong or over-the-counter medications that can interact with alcohol

Others may choose not to drink for health or religious reasons. If you’re struggling to control your drinking and need more support with not drinking over the holidays, it might help to seek some counselling or other help from a service like https://www.sunshinebehavioralhealth.com/texas/mckinney/. 

The holiday season can be very difficult to get through for people who don’t drink alcohol, even if you love the holidays. If this is you, try this list of tips to help you get through the holiday season without alcohol. 

Skip The Risky Parties

If you are invited to an event that specifically mentions alcohol, such as a cocktail party or an event at a bar, it might be better to decide not to go unless you are certain that you have to. If you do have to go, talk to the bartender about your needs, and they should be able to offer you some delicious mocktails or other non-alcoholic drinks. 

Drink Something Non-Alcoholic, But Fun

Options for non-alcoholic, grown-up drinks have got much better in recent years, so you can still have something fun to drink, without the alcohol. If you’re in a bar, ask the bartender for a suggestion. If you’re heading to a party, check out what your local supermarket has to offer and take something with you. 

Be Assertive

Learn how to say no and stick to it. You might find it easier to have a stock answer ready for anyone who is nosy about why you aren’t drinking. Remember, you don’t have to volunteer the truth if you feel awkward. For example, if you’d rather not reveal you’re in treatment for a drinking problem, you can just say, “No thank you, I can’t drink on the medication I’m on.” 

Make Sure You Have Social Support

Friends and family who will support you can be a big help. Ask your support group to not offer you alcohol, give you encouragement, and shield you from nosy questions. 

Watch Out For Stressful Moments

Family events can be stressful, which can push you to drink. Be prepared for these situations.