Combating Substance Use During the Holiday Season

Ryan Wade, MD, Director of Freedom Institute, shares coping mechanisms for individuals abstaining from alcohol during the holiday season:

1. Identify others who are willing to do the same (or are supportive of sobriety) – have a small group of people who are also maintaining sobriety

2. Show up to your holiday events late and leave early – limit your time at an event where alcohol is being served, and you can reduce the amount of "down time" (or awkward pauses in conversation) that might lead you to pursue an alcoholic beverage

3. Request a mocktail – you may feel more comfortable just having a drink in your hand when socializing with others who are consuming alcohol

4. Reduce your access / exposure – if you are serious about abstaining from alcohol use, try to limit your exposure to alcohol or your opportunity to consume alcohol

5. Give the gift of sober ride home – offer to be the Designated Driver as a way to keep yourself honest at these events (and provide the excuse to others for not drinking)