In Georgia, summer is the time for fun in the sun, but it can be hard to have fun when you’re struggling with addiction. From cookouts to boat parties, drugs and alcohol can feel like an ever-present accessory to summer activities, and the temptation can be huge.

Wondering how to enjoy your summer without using drugs or alcohol? ALANA Recovery Centers has everything you need to know about staying sober this summer.

Tips for a Sober Summer

If you want to stay sober this summer, here are some tips to help you enjoy the season without using drugs or alcohol:

• Stay connected with healthy peer groups. Spending time with people who support your sobriety is key to staying sober this summer. Try to find things you can do with your sober friends, and make sure to avoid situations where drugs or alcohol are present.

• Avoid boredom by getting involved in healthy activities. There are plenty of fun things to do this summer without using drugs or alcohol. From waterparks at Six Flags Whitewater to hiking Kennesaw Mountain or going to local fairs and festivals, there are a lot of great sober summertime activities in the area.

• Prepare for temptation by setting boundaries and creating a relapse prevention plan. It’s important to know what your triggers are and how you will respond if you are faced with temptation this summer. Make a list of strategies and options you can take when temptation strikes, and keep it in a safe place.
  

Create a Relapse Prevention Plan

A relapse prevention plan is a personalized set of steps that you create to help you stay sober. It can include anything from attending local recovery support group meetings to calling a friend when you feel tempted to use drugs or alcohol.

Creating a relapse prevention plan is an important part of staying sober. It allows you to identify your personal triggers and put together a strategy for how to deal with them. If you’re feeling tempted to use drugs or alcohol, having a relapse prevention plan can help you resist temptation and stay on track.

There are many different things that can go into a relapse prevention plan. Some common elements include:

• Identifying your personal triggers for drug or alcohol use
• Making a list of healthy activities and distractions that can help you stay sober
• Creating a support network of friends and family members who can help you stay on track
• Attending support group meetings or therapy sessions
• Putting together a coping skills toolkit, which includes things like deep breathing exercises and positive self-talk statements

It’s important to remember that relapse prevention plans should be personalized to fit your needs. What works for one person might not work for another, so feel free to experiment until you find what works best for you.

If you’re struggling to create your own relapse prevention plan, there are plenty of resources available online and through addiction treatment centers. There is no “one size fits all” solution, so don’t be afraid to ask for help in putting together a plan that supports your sobriety.

Sober Summer Ideas

Addiction can make summer feel like a drag, but there are plenty of things to do without drugs or alcohol.



One of the best ways to enjoy summer without using drugs or alcohol is to get involved in outdoor activities you love. This could include anything from hiking and biking to playing sports or going to the beach. Connecting with nature, getting plenty of sunshine, and pushing your body physically can produce dopamine and serotonin, two essential brain chemicals that influence happiness and reduce cravings.

With beautiful weather in Georgia and tons of natural outdoor amenities, you can stay sober and have a great summer.

Sober Fun in the Atlanta, Georgia Area

Looking for fun sober activities in the Atlanta area this summer? There are plenty of things to do in the metro-Atlanta area that don't involve drugs or alcohol. Here are a few of our favorite ideas:

For starters, head to Piedmont Park. This large recreational park in Atlanta has something for everyone, including a playground, a dog park, and plenty of green space to relax in. If you're looking for something a little more active, check out the BeltLine. This former railway corridor has been turned into a walking and biking trail that circles the city, providing convenient access to restaurants and shops along the way.

If you're looking for some culture, head to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens or the High Museum of Art. The botanical garden is home to beautiful gardens and exhibits, while the High Museum is one of the largest art museums in the country.

If you're interested in more outdoorsy activities, there's nothing like Stone Mountain Park. This park is home to a variety of nature-based amenities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There's also a playground and a zoo on site for kids.

Want to keep cool this summer? Kayaking and paddleboarding on Lake Allatoona or Lake Lanier are always fun for sober singles, couples, and groups. Not only do you get the opportunity to push your body, but the local lake environments offer a truly peaceful surrounding that's perfect for healing.

Doing things that are fun and physically active will help keep you busy and distracted from any potential cravings you may have. No matter what you decide to do, be sure to stay connected with healthy friend groups. Look for people who can provide support and accountability when it comes to staying sober during the summer.

Wondering which summer activities to pass on? To help you choose which events to say no to, keep these questions in mind:

• Will there be drugs and/or alcohol at the event?
• Will the people there respect my desire to stay sober?
• Will I feel left out if I don’t participate in drug or alcohol use?
• If I feel overwhelmed, what is my exit strategy?
  

How to Stay Sober this Summer

Over the summer, we recommend avoiding the people, places, and things that trigger your addiction. This may mean saying no to certain friends or social gatherings or staying away from places where you know drugs and alcohol will be present.

It's important to build a strong sober support system. Talk to your friends and family about your addiction and recovery journey. Let them know how they can support you in your sobriety, especially when you're struggling.

Stay positive and stay motivated. Remember why you chose to get sober and keep your goals in mind. Celebrate each accomplishment along the way – no matter how small.

Don't get discouraged if you relapse. Up to 60% of addicts experience a relapse at some point during their sobriety journey. It's a common experience and one you can learn from as you begin to move forward again. Be patient and kind to yourself.

With commitment and effort, it is possible to stay sober during the summer months – and all year long. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. There is no shame in seeking assistance; in fact, it shows strength and courage. You can do this!

Get Help Staying Sober this Summer

Need more help staying sober this summer? Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) near you offer the structure and support you need to have a great summer free of drugs and alcohol. ALANA Recovery IOP offers group therapy, individual counseling, and educational sessions on addiction and relapse prevention. They can also provide referrals to local detox facilities and other resources like rehab alumni programs.

Relapse prevention programs and IOP support groups can provide guidance and assistance during difficult times. If you’re not sure whether IOP is the right step for you, consider talking to your doctor or a therapist. They can help you assess your needs and find the best treatment plan for you.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, please call ALANA Recovery Centers toll-free at 1-877-752-5262 to speak with an Addiction Specialist. We are here to help.