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Thankfully, Halloween isn’t until the end of the month, which means you have a whole month to decide what to do on the spookiest day of the year. Whether that means you’re attending a Halloween party or throwing one yourself, you’ll know what to expect.
If you get invited to a Halloween party, don’t be afraid to ask the host if non-alcoholic options are available. It is also good to create an escape plan if situations become too difficult and make sure you have reliable transportation home. Having a plan of action can help you avoid any unnecessary stress in the future.
In early recovery, you might not be used to celebrating sober. Even if you’ve been sober for some time, it can be awkward being the odd one out. Spending the weekend with a sober friend not only gives you accountability but helps you feel less weird being the only one who isn’t drinking. You can bring them along to a party, dress up together, and even spend the night carving pumpkins. Learning how to have fun sober isn’t difficult when you have support – especially with someone who’s been in your shoes.
If you plan to go to a party that does have alcohol, bring something that you can drink. Having a drink in your hand will ward off any questions about why you aren’t drinking. It can also help you feel less awkward if you are worried about being the only one not drinking. Seltzer and soda can be a lifesaver. However, you can always ask the host to include some fun Halloween-themed mocktails on the menu.
If you plan on going out, keep your support system on the same page. Set times to check in with yourself as well as the people who have your back, whether that be a sponsor, family member or sober friend you’ve brought with you. Being honest with how you feel can keep you from spiraling when stress becomes overwhelming, or you feel the urge to use drugs or drink alcohol. If you feel like the party is too much, there’s nothing wrong with leaving early.
If this is your first year sober, it might be a good idea to stay in instead of going out. Spend the holiday with your friends and family. Watch your favorite scary movies and eat candy. Turn your porch light on and hand out candy to trick or treaters. A relaxing night can still make for a fun time. Due to the rise in Covid cases, a Halloween at home might be the best option.
Christmas might be known for its charity parties, but Halloweentime brings plenty of opportunities to attend events that raise money for great causes. Check your local calendar to see if there’s one near you. These family-friendly events lean heavily on the sober side, offering alcohol-free punch and fun activities. (Beware, these events tend to have costume contests. Make sure you go all out this year.)
Even if you don’t have children of your own, going trick or treating might be a great way to enjoy the holiday sober. Ask your friends or family members if you can take their kids out (and maybe grab some candy for yourself.) Not only is walking from house to house great exercise, but it might bring you back to your childhood days of filling bags with pounds of candy. Taking the kids around the block also gives you a chance to dress up too. It might be the year you plan a group Halloween costume.
If it seems like there aren’t any safe options for the night, but you still feel social, consider throwing your own Halloween bash with soda and snacks. You can celebrate through video chat or in-person with friends who are vaccinated. Having your own celebration can ensure that you keep your own safety in mind while still allowing you to be social.
From Halloween to Christmas, the holidays bring on more exposure to substances. Having a plan from the very beginning can mitigate relapse. If you’re used to spending Halloween partying with your friends, then it’s time to create your plan for staying sober this Halloween weekend. If you’re in early recovery, it might be best to stay in for the night. There isn’t anything wrong with handing out candy. When planning the night, make sure to also consider Covid precautions as the cases rise. Even if you are vaccinated, you can still spread this illness. When planning your weekend, keep your loved ones in the loop. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your sponsor, a friend, or your family if you’re worried about your own safety. Halloween should be fun and it can be with the right plan in place. To learn more about how to have a safe and sober Halloween, call Cornerstone Healing Center today at (800) 643-2108.
Published On: 10/06/2021
Estil is the CEO/Founder of Cornerstone and has worked in the addiction recovery field for 12 years. He has served 5A.org as the organization’s’ Executive Director, Board Member and President. Estil has a passion to help people get sober utilizing abstinence-based recovery.
Karen is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years experience. She not only specializes in addiction, but is in recovery as well. Karen is our clinical director.
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