Once an individual has left any addiction recovery program, the goal is to remain sober, yet stay aware of the heavy risks that exist regarding relapse back into substance use disorder. While admitting to an addiction, conquering detox and rebuilding through flexible treatment are all incredible achievements, staying sober is also quite an accomplishment.
Why Celebrate Sobriety?
Tracking success in sobriety may seem to raise the risk of relapse—especially if one is constantly counting the days since a substance has been used. Some may even find that looking at the calendar as a challenge to stay sober longer is an unwelcome and constant reminder that addiction and relapse risk is present. For these reasons and more, some individuals may choose to keep their sobriety to themselves, and strive to live their new chapter in life without constantly looking back on the past.
However, it is important to acknowledge one’s sobriety and incredible benchmarks. This is particularly true during the roughest time of transition—the first year. While every individual’s addiction recovery journey is unique, some of the reasons it is important to celebrate benchmarks in sobriety include:
- Reminding one’s self that life without drugs or alcohol is possible—and enjoyable
- Inspiring others to make a change in their life by showing them how health and wellness is possible through addiction recovery
- Welcoming and embracing new opportunities for change—in health and in other areas of life, such as family or career
- Raising awareness about the success of addiction recovery and the possibilities for positive change
Celebrating Sobriety
Sobriety is a difficult subject to celebrate; for some, reflecting on this new course of life may be a reminder of a challenging past and the struggles they faced in addiction. Unlike other celebrations, it is not typically appropriate to go to a bar, have a party or create an environment that may encourage substance use disorder.
While you should celebrate sobriety and reflect on your ability to push forward, it can be hard choosing a way to enjoy this phase of life. For many, reaching a benchmark is a great time to check in with those who give support—such as family, peers in addiction recovery groups, friends and counselors.
How one chooses to celebrate—or not celebrate—a sobriety benchmark is up to the individual and can be a personal matter. But what should you do if someone you know is reaching an accomplishment? There are no rules of etiquette, but it is important to have respect for the individual and to put their journey first when addressing their achievements.
Some ideas for commending an individual for their sobriety include:
- Writing them a personal letter
- Taking them out to a meal, expressing your pride in the individual’s recovery
- Giving a gift that holds meaning—such as jewelry or photographs—one that may serve as a reminder of why sobriety is important if the individual faces relapse risk in the future
Celebrating Life Sober without Focusing on Sobriety
After the first year of sobriety has been achieved, many may find that anything is possible. However, at Chapters Capistrano, we aim to help individuals understand and recognize the reasons that relapse may occur at any point.
One of the best ways to enjoy and continue a sober path is to find other things to celebrate: reaching health goals, making career accomplishments or celebrating relationships. Staying active and looking for opportunities to relish in life is highly important; these values can be understood through comprehensive, flexible addiction recovery.
If you or a loved one is ready to work toward a new chapter in life away from substance use disorder, Chapters Capistrano offers comfortable, luxury, private and comprehensive addiction recovery options. To start looking to the future, call us as soon as possible at 1-949-276-2886.
