The BridgeWay

Mental Health Matters with The BridgeWay

The BridgeWay

  • The BridgeWay Features Sarah Lowery, LPC, MPA, EMDR-II, Director of Clinical Services discussing sober strategies for the holidays

The BridgeWay Features Sarah Lowery, LPC, MPA, EMDR-II, Director of Clinical Services discussing sober strategies for the holidays

Tuesday 29th November 2022

Sarah Lowery from The BridgeWay offers practical tips for staying sober during the holiday season, focusing on planning and support systems.
14 minutes
Informative
Supportive
Empowering
Thought-provoking
Encouraging

About this podcast

Mental Health Matters with The BridgeWay
Author:
The BridgeWay
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Categories:
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindful Recovery
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Financial Health in Recovery
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Holiday Sobriety Tips with Sarah Lowery: Thriving Through Festivities

Sobriety is hard and we're also social beings, and so having support systems is paramount to deal with the things inside of our heads that we're having to go through every day with our internal triggers, but also with the external triggers that we encounter all the time.
The holiday season is often a time for joy and celebration, but for those in recovery from addiction, it can present unique challenges. In this episode of 'Mental Health Matters with The BridgeWay,' Sarah Lowery, LPC, MPA, EMDR-II, and Director of Clinical Services at The BridgeWay, shares her invaluable advice on staying sober during the festive period. Lowery's insights are both practical and heartfelt, making this episode a must-listen for anyone navigating sobriety through the holidays.
Sarah starts by encouraging listeners to reflect on what the holidays mean to them personally. Are these gatherings about family connections or are they centered around drinking? By understanding their values, individuals can find new, meaningful ways to celebrate that don't involve alcohol. Planning is another key aspect Lowery emphasizes. She suggests having both a plan A and a plan B for social events.
Plan A could involve attending the event with a firm commitment to stay sober, while plan B might mean opting out or bringing along a non-alcoholic beverage. It's perfectly okay to say 'no, thank you' when offered a drink, and people should never feel pressured to explain their decision. Handling social pressure can be daunting, but Lowery offers straightforward advice: simply say 'no, thank you' and stick to it.
It's important to feel comfortable with your decision and not let others' opinions sway you. Support systems play a crucial role in maintaining sobriety. Whether it's a therapist or a support group like AA, having people to lean on can make all the difference. Lowery stresses that seeking help is nothing to be ashamed of; in fact, it's a sign of strength. Finally, Lowery underscores that sobriety is a personal choice and should be embraced as such.
With numerous non-alcoholic options available at social gatherings, there's no need to feel out of place or pressured to drink. Embracing sobriety can be empowering and lead to more meaningful holiday experiences. Sarah Lowery's tips are a treasure trove for anyone looking to stay sober during the holidays. Her advice on planning, handling social pressure, and relying on support systems provides a solid foundation for a joyful and sober festive season.