Summer vs Addiction: Supporting Recovery this Season

Summer is frequently thought of as the happiest season of the year. Warmer days, longer nights and social diaries filled with festivals, BBQs, holidays and celebrations. In the UK, drinking alcohol is often considered the norm when it comes to making memories in the sun but when someone is battling addiction, summer can be tremendously difficult.

Why is summer hard for people facing addiction?

It can feel like alcohol is everywhere, particularly over the summer months when high spirits are matched with drink-fueled get-togethers. For many, a couple of drinks with friends is simply fun.  For someone living with addiction, this temptation can stir up feelings of anxiety, worry and fear.

Whether you are trying to moderate your alcohol intake, in the midst of addiction, or have been in recovery for a long period, the nights out, summer parties, weddings and constant talk about drink can be overwhelming.

Navigating summer with addiction

Summer is a hard time for many but there are things you can do to help mitigate the pressures of the season:

• Put yourself first. Take the steps you need to be able to navigate events and don’t be afraid to leave early or decline if you think a situation could be too triggering.

• Plan alcohol-free activities. Arranging activities that are fun but align with your goals will give you things to look forward to and help reduce feelings of missing out.

• Communicate your boundaries. Let people know you won’t be drinking ahead of time and define what you feel comfortable with. Friends who respect your boundaries should accept this without peer pressure or judgement.

• Try a new activity or hobby. Focusing your mind on something new is a great way to distract from outside influences and keep busy.

• Focus on a healthy routine. Regular exercise, spending time outdoors, prioritising sleep and eating nourishing food all work together to support an alcohol-free lifestyle.

• Keep your support network close. Reach out to friends and family, talk to them about how you feel and lean on them for support.

• Seek help early. If you are struggling at all with addictive habits, seek help before reaching crisis point. Talking things through with people who understand can make all the difference.

Supporting someone through addiction

If you know someone who is struggling with addiction or an unhealthy habit, there are things you can do to help:

• Be a listening ear

• Extend an invitation to an alcohol-free get-together

• Create safe environments that keep temptation at bay

• Talk to them calmly without judgement or blame

• Stay positive and talk about the things you have to look forward to together

• Get help for yourself – CADAS offer support for affected others

A positive summer is possible

Recovery is possible and so is a positive summer. Think of it as a chance to spend time with loved ones, enjoy new activities and focus on a healthy lifestyle. Building new traditions that fulfill you is key and this summer could prove the perfect opportunity to build healthy habits and enjoy activities without alcohol. Think - long walks in nature, outdoor hobbies like paddleboarding, reading, self-care, mindfulness or even hosting your own mocktail night or picnic.

What to do if you need addiction support this summer

If you feel you need support – speak to someone. This is the most important first step to recovery.

At CADAS, we support anyone who is struggling with addiction or unhealthy habits and we offer 1-1s with experienced coaches as well as group sessions.

WE CAN HELP

Helpline: 0800 254 5658 (available on weekdays 9am-5pm)

Email: contact@cadas.co.uk