Should I Go to Chicago Fests if I Recently Got Sober?
Should I Go to Chicago Fests if I Recently Got Sober?
With the spring and summer comes a host of amazing street festivals and even major concerts in Chicago. From Lollapalooza to Burger Fest, you’ll find there’s no shortage of fun festivals to attend. With that said, festivals can be tough for some people in sobriety (particularly early sobriety).
Here are some things to consider in order to see if going to a festival may be right for you, along with some great tips!
A Few Questions to Ask Yourself…
Before you jump in your car or on a CTA train, consider these questions:
· Will I be okay around alcohol? While some street festivals have a higher emphasis on alcohol than others, it’s important to keep in mind just about all of them serve alcoholic beverages. Are you currently comfortable with being around alcohol? If not, visiting a festival this season may not be the best idea.
· Do I have an exit plan? You may go with some friends to a festival, then find you are uncomfortable and need to leave. Before going, think about your exit plan. If your friends know you are sober, consider letting them know in advance that you may need to leave if you feel uncomfortable. If not, consider having a reason to leave (i.e. work the next day, need to walk the dog, etc.).
· Why are you going? Are you going to hang out with friends? Enjoy the atmosphere? Grab a bite to eat? Or are you going because you want to party? Being honest with yourself is key to your success.
Sober Fun Tips
Here are some quick tips to help you stay sober while you’re living it up at a Chicago festival:
· Go with friends that will keep you accountable. If you have sober friends or friends who know you are sober and support your sobriety, consider going with those friends to help you stay accountable.
· Have a game plan. Is there a certain band you want to see? Maybe a vendor you want to check out? Planning in advance can help you stay focused on having sober fun.
· Bring your own drinks. If it’s allowed, consider bringing your own water, electrolyte drink, and/or soda. This will help you to avoid the drink tents.
Looking for Additional Support?
If you are recently sober and you are struggling or you are trying to get sober and need additional support, reach out to Front Door Health today.
Front Door Health provides concierge, judgment-free in-home treatment for patients when they need it. We take an evidence-based approach to treatment, and we create custom treatment plans for our patients to increase their chances of success. Our treatment process is client-focused and individualized. This means no group sessions with strangers and no “treatment as usual” approach. You are unique and the treatment plan we create for you is designed to meet you where you are along your journey and help you to reach your recovery goals.
We understand that it can be difficult to put your life on hold and take time off work. Our in-home treatment allows you to continue to meet your work, family, and other obligations while receiving the treatment you deserve.
If you would like to learn more about in-home treatment, contact Front Door Health today. We’re happy to answer any questions and provide you with the help you need.
info@frontdoorhealthcenter.com
