Staying Sober this Pride? Here Are Our Tips

May 24, 2024
ALEXANDER

Staying Sober this Pride?

Over the last few years, the queer community has talked more about sobriety. What used to come with stigma for fear of being left out now is being celebrated as more LGBTQ members are leading a sober life. We all know the allure of nightlife and the party scene and the drugs and alcohol that come along with it. For some in our community, that just isn't working for them. More and more Pride events are holding sober events and the sober community has even started events of their own. Pride season can be difficult and triggering for some leading a sober life. Still much of Pride is centered around partying.

The Recovery Research Institute reported that an estimated 30% of LGBTQ+ individuals suffer from some form of addiction, compared to 9% in the general population. Our friends at Sabino Recovery have shared some tips for getting through this festival season.

Keep your reasons for being sober visible.

Keep a totem around you while attending Pride. Something you can hold on to in your pocket or look at to keep you on track. It can even be as easy as keeping a picture of your family, your partner, or a picture of your checklist of why you staying sober. Being able to grab and hold or look at something in a triggering moment can make you reflect, take a breath, and stay on track.

Have a sober buddy.

This goes without saying, but there is strength in numbers. Bring along a sober friend, or two, or put together a group. If you go to recovery meetings, scope out some fellow gays and have them tag along. There are social media groups, there are designated meetings for LGBTQ, and there are local groups, just find your tribe. If you can't find anyone to join you, make sure you have a buddy system on speed dial that you can call or text if you feel like going off track. Just a simple message of support can help greatly.

Give yourself other sources of dopamine.

We know the allure of partying during Pride is to get that high that comes along with being in the groove, having your heart race, and enjoying the energy. Create your own source of energy. You can meditate or work out before a big event to get that energy up, to feel amped.

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Know where things are ahead of Pride.

Many Prides are now offering sober events, alcohol-free areas, or resting places. Find out where these locations are ahead of time so you can head directly there if you get the urge. Also, find out where the nearest exits are in case you need a quick break to catch your breath. It's also wise to find out where the nearest recovery meetings are in case you need a boost in a safe space.

Recognize your triggers and avoid them.

What exactly sets you off and tempts you to fall out of recovery? Be honest with yourself and know what you can handle and what you can't. Maybe it's avoiding that Pride bar hop that usually happens, maybe it's avoiding certain friends during the festivities, or maybe you are new to sobriety and Pride as a whole can be too much. It's just about being honest with yourself. There is no shame in saying no, that's not for you.

Set boundaries ahead of the event.

This goes hand in hand with knowing your triggers. Set a time limit and tempting spaces or events. When you set boundaries, you can keep yourself in check and hold yourself accountable.