Thinking about the holidays

For many, the past couple of years has led to excess stress, too much idle time, and boredom which has contributed to an increase in alcohol consumption. With the holidays fast approaching some of you may feel the need to practice abstinence or take a healthy break from drinking. So why not learn a few tricks and tips on how to refrain from drinking while at your holiday event.

Just saying "no" often isn't as easy as we may think in the moment. Like a fire drill, it is a great idea to practice the plan in advance so when you're faced with a real emergency you feel calm, cool, and collected.

Write down a few of the following suggestions or create your own fire drill, and have a safe and Happy Holidays.

1. Have an escape plan. Drive yourself so you can leave whenever you want.

2. Plan who you go with. Don't go with friends that are "drinkers" or you associate with drinking.

3. Do self-care before you go out so you're at your best. Low moods often lead to drinking.

4. Mingle around the food rather than the bar/fridge/cooler.

5. Full hands don't need a drink. Keep a glass in your hand that looks like it may contain alcohol but doesn't. Then fewer people are likely to offer you a drink.

6. Stay busy and help with things around the party.

7. Is it mandatory? If not, maybe not going at all is an option.

8. Seek out other people that are also not drinking.

9. Practice saying "no" beforehand. Rehearse your lines. "No thanks, I'm driving."

10. Have FUN! Engage in the atmosphere, play games, and participate. Time goes by much faster when we are enjoying ourselves.

If you do decide to consume alcohol this holiday season, remember to pace yourself, avoid drinking with the intention to get drunk, alternate alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic ones, keep a full stomach to slow the absorption of alcohol, and never ever drink and drive.

☃️ Have a safe and happy holiday.

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