Talking to Your Friends About Your Sobriety
Talking to Your Friends About Your Sobriety
Whether you are planning to go to a wedding, a sporting event, or even out to a bar, you’re likely to be surrounded by alcohol and people drinking. In a private setting, you also may be around drug use (like people smoking marijuana). If your friends are drinking or using drugs, they may be expecting you to join them. That’s where things become difficult. How do you tell them that you are sober?
Below are some tips for talking to your friends about your sobriety and what you can do if you are having trouble maintaining your sobriety on your own…
When Is the Right Time to Tell My Friends?
There isn’t necessarily a “right time” to tell your friends about your sobriety, but if you choose to you may consider letting them know before going out. At least then they know in advance. You can also simply decline drinking or using drugs and let them know that you aren’t drinking or using right now (if you don’t want to tell them that you are completely sober). With that said, this may be an opportunity to speak with your friends about your stopping the use of drugs and/or alcohol.
How Do I Tell My Friends?
It’s best to tell your friends in a friendly manner that is non-judgmental. Even if you believe they are drinking or using too much, this isn’t the right time to bring that up. Instead, make sure the conversation is focused on your drinking or using habits.
It’s okay to be firm if need be. It’s appropriate to set boundaries and let your friends know that this is an important decision.
Do I Owe an Explanation?
No. You don’t. With that said, you can offer one should you choose to. If they are close friends, it’s likely that they’ve noticed how your drinking and/or using has negatively affected your life. If they aren’t close friends, they may not have but they should take your word for it should you choose to open up.
It’s extremely important to understand that you don’t have to give any reason not to drink or use. If your friends keep pressuring you even after you’ve said “No,” you may need to set a firm boundary and let them know if they don’t stop you won’t be able to spend time with them. If you’ve explained your reason for sobriety and they keep pushing you, you may want to reconsider the friendship and whether they have your best interests at heart.
Ultimately, how, when, and why you tell your friends about your sobriety is up to you. It is their job to respect your decision. If they won’t, they may not be the right people to be around.
Need Additional Support?
Getting and staying sober can be very difficult and—even with the support of your loved ones—additional support may be required. If this is the case, reach out to Front Door Health.
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, school, 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
