Deciding to get sober and go through addiction treatment is a significant step in your life. While you may be proud of the progress you have made, it can still be an awkward situation when those around you are drinking, and you need to turn down drinks. Some people may not know you are sober or understand what recovery means, meaning you may be offered drinks repeatedly throughout the night.
Being offered drinks can be difficult, especially if you are unsure how to navigate these conversations that can often be uncomfortable or when others continually pressure you to consume alcohol. However, there are effective ways to tell others you are sober without causing a scene or sabotaging your sobriety. Next time you find yourself wondering how to discuss your sobriety and turn down drinks, try these tips to make the process easier.
Usually, a simple “no, thank you” is enough to stop further questions or requests regarding drinking. After all, you have worked hard to get sober, and you should be confident enough in your sobriety to protect it at all costs. Even so, it is understandable to feel anxious or awkward in situations where others are drinking and asking you to join them. If more questions come regarding why you won’t drink, remember that you don’t owe anyone an explanation for your choices. Your sponsor or sober friends can also provide sound advice regarding this subject if you are still unsure how to handle the situation.
Being confident in your sobriety and educating others on recovery can help you refuse drinks and explain a complicated issue to those that lack understanding. If you are comfortable doing this, you can tell someone, “No, thank you, I’m sober,” when you are asked to drink. If the person continues asking, you can explain what recovery is in a few short and sweet sentences. While telling someone no is usually enough to stop further requests, providing a confident explanation can stop the person from asking any more.
When deciding how to turn down drinks, take into account your readiness to discuss recovery or not. If you are not, keep in mind that you don’t owe anyone an explanation for why you aren’t drinking. You may even come up with a white lie to stop the questions. If you are uncomfortable discussing your recovery with others, stating that you are on a diet, taking medications that can’t be mixed with alcohol, or that you are trying to save money can be good ways to get you out of awkward situations. While we aren’t condoning lying in recovery, this can be a protective measure as you become more comfortable telling others about your sobriety.
It can be challenging to stand down the questions regarding your refusal to drink on your own, but having a sober friend beside you that is also not drinking can ease your anxiety. Others will most likely not ask if more than one person isn’t drinking, and this person can help hold you accountable in your sobriety during the experience. When choosing a sober buddy, you should choose someone that is knowledgeable about your previous addiction. They should stay by you for the entirety of the function to ensure you are safe and leave with you should things get too out of hand.
It can be easy to cave on sobriety when you are constantly being offered an alcoholic beverage, and you have nothing keeping your hands busy. Keeping a non-alcoholic drink in your hand will likely keep others from continually asking if you want a drink. They will also not be likely to tell that you aren’t drinking alcohol, so the questions shouldn’t even arise. Keeping your hands busy will also keep you from smoking or drinking throughout the night.
Most individuals understand the importance of a designated driver and won’t continue pressuring you to drink if you tell them you’re driving that night. Many people don’t want to participate in drinking and driving, nor be its cause, so telling others that you are driving after the party will get you out of further drink offers.
Don’t stay at a party if it becomes overwhelming for your recovery. If you feel uncomfortable, you are allowed to leave without explanation. Remember, your sobriety should be your priority, and nothing is worth jeopardizing it.
Going to functions where alcohol is being served is not always the best idea in recovery, but sometimes you can’t avoid it. Preparing for these events and knowing how you will turn down drinks can alleviate some of the anxiety you may be feeling regarding your sobriety and the event. The critical thing to remember is that you are allowed to say no, and no one can force you to drink. However, if you are still struggling with your drink refusal skills, don’t be afraid to reach out. NorthStar Transitions has your back when it comes to maintaining recovery for the long term. We understand how difficult it can be to refuse drinks in early recovery, but we can help you develop skills that will navigate these situations seamlessly. We also provide aftercare programs and workshops to help you continue recovery. Call us today at (303) 558-6400 to learn more.
