Travel season is here; vacations are a time to relax and rejuvenate. Some persons with substance use disorders may find traveling challenging with increase fear and anxiety. When you travel, you are separated from your familiar support network and routine is disrupted. Time spent away from home doesn’t have to threaten your sobriety, remember you CAN stay sober while traveling.
There are many ways to make your travel and recovery successful, this involves planning ahead to protect your sobriety.
Meetings are everywhere, all over the world, finding 12-Step meetings at your destination will keep you connected to a sober community and be a place you can openly share about fears, triggers, and establish new friendships. Wherever your destination takes you stay engaged; don’t be afraid to ask for help, most hotels have 12 step meeting resources or research meetings ahead of time and be open to alternative meetings. Consider connecting with online meetings, or access recovery apps via your mobile device. Recovery apps are useful, fun, therapeutic tools to help you stay on track anywhere at any time. Also check in with a sober friend, travel with a sober companion, or call your sponsor every day to stay accountable and connected.
Have you ever thought about taking a sober cruise? This is especially beneficial for those in early recovery to consult with a reputable travel agency for guidance. Most of the travelers on those trips are also in recovery, so you’ve already established something in common to make the experience and connection easier.
Most of all try and avoid risky situations, staying sober require that you remain vigilant around people, places or things. Spend some time thinking about some of the situations you may be confronted with and how best to handle those situations, keep your tool box near.
In your travels remind yourself that all you have to get through is a single 24-hour period at a time and it’s only a matter of time until you will be home where your familiar support system awaits. Find quiet time to Meditate, Reflect, and Relax.
Keep doing something for your recovery every day and every day you will have recovery!
DON’T DRINK, DON’T USE, STAY SOBER AND HAVE FUN!
Online Recovery Resources:
Alcoholics Anonymous
Narcotics Anonymous
Al-Anon Family Groups
AA Online
NA Online
Al-Anon Online
Recovery Apps:
InTheRooms
Mindfulness Meditation
12 Steps AA Companion