Ringing in the New Year can be a lot of fun! Counting down to midnight, surrounded by friends and good cheer, is an experience many look forward to year after year. But for those in recovery, these parties can include alcohol or other substances that can put your sobriety at risk. While it’s certainly fun to pop a celebratory bottle at these events, they can be dangerous and frustrating when you’re sober.

Luckily, there are many ways to countdown to the new year.Here are 10 ways to have a sober New Year’s Eve!

Attend a Sober Gathering

New Year’s Eve parties can be pretty wild affairs, often with copious amounts of champagne for partygoers to celebrate. It is a proven fact that one of the most common triggers for relapse is contact with substances. While going to a fun, fancy New Year’s celebration might be tempting, finding an alcohol-free gathering will be healthier for you and just as enjoyable, if not even more so.

Quality Time With Loved Ones

Taking some extra time with your loved ones is never a bad way to spend New Year’s Eve with your loved ones. Not only will the people in your life most important to you bring you joy, they are also likely to support you in your sobriety. It’s also been proven that interpersonal support networks can help reduce the risk of relapse. Plus, you’ll be in a more comfortable environment, and able to have a sober New Year’s Eve. 

Twelve-Step Meetings

Plenty of people in recovery will have concern  about the presence of alcohol at holiday gatherings. Attending a 12-step meeting on or before the holiday can help you prepare. You could even schedule sober events with the people there. Whatever you get out of the meeting, 12-step programs can give you the tools you need to stay sober on New Year’s.

Hold Your Own Sober Gathering

Perhaps the best way to avoid an alcohol-laden party is by throwing an alcohol-free sober party of your own. Having your own party puts you in the driver’s seat, allowing you to decide what drinks are available. That could still mean sparkling, non-alcoholic beverages, or something entirely different. If you are a person who enjoys event planning, then this would be the perfect activity for you.

Have a Quiet Evening

If partying isn’t for you, then having a quiet evening can be just as fulfilling. Eating some delicious snacks with a mug of hot chocolate and a nice book or other relaxing activity can be just as fulfilling as any party. Since it is probably not the best idea to be isolated, you could invite your other sober friends or those who are supportive.

Have a Movie Night

For a quiet night in, you could have a sober New Year’s by having a movie night instead. (Bonus points if the movie is holiday-themed!) Whatever you choose to watch, the key is to settle in with your friends around a bowl of popcorn.

Have a Game Night

If a movie feels too passive, then consider having a game night instead. Playing games is a great way to keep guests engaged without the need for social lubrication. From intense table games to casual competitions, games are a great way to bring people together. What better way to ring in the New Year than sitting together around the table, face to face?

Have a Happy New Year with Never Alone Recovery

Celebrating New Year’s Eve can be a challenge if you’re trying to stay sober, but it doesn’t have to be. With these ten tips, you can ring in 2023 however you want! 

Whether you’re wondering how to choose a drug rehab, or looking for alcohol rehabs in Indiana, follow us on social media to see what resources of ours could help you.