As the days get longer and the weather warms up, it’s natural to feel a lift in mood. Sunshine, barbecues, beach days, and ballgames often bring a sense of ease and fun. Although, if you’re in recovery from alcohol use, this time of year can be filled with landmines—some obvious, some not.
I often hear clients say, “I feel great lately. Do I really need to keep coming to therapy?” And while the boost from sunshine is real, it can mask deeper challenges—especially when summer’s social calendar starts to fill up with events that used to revolve around drinking.
Summer Triggers: Let’s Talk About Them
For those in recovery, summer can be a complicated time. Cravings often surface in subtle ways—like at a backyard BBQ where the cooler is packed with beer, or a baseball game where beer vendors pass by every inning. Pool parties, beach days, and weddings can come with open bars and unspoken expectations to drink and “let loose.” Even vacations, which are meant to be relaxing, can disrupt your routine and stir up that old mindset of having “earned” a drink. These moments can feel small, but they can pack a big emotional punch if you’re not prepared.
That’s why sticking with therapy through the summer isn’t just helpful—it’s protective.
Why Keep Coming to Therapy in the Summer?
- Stay Consistent with Your Recovery Goals: Warmer months can tempt us to loosen structure, but therapy helps you maintain healthy routines even when life feels more relaxed.
- Plan Ahead for Risky Situations: Use your sessions to create a game plan for summer events—how to navigate cravings, set boundaries, or say “no” without guilt.
- Use the Extra Daylight to Your Advantage: Schedule sessions during times that work best for your new summer rhythm. Maybe even try an outdoor or walking therapy session.
- Process the Unexpected: Vacations and social gatherings often bring unanticipated emotions. Therapy gives you a place to unpack them safely.
Real-Life Tips for a Sober Summer:
- Bring your own drinks – Pack a cooler with sodas, flavored waters/seltzers, or your favorite non-alcoholic beverages so you’re not stuck choosing between beer or nothing.
- Have an exit plan – Drive yourself, set a specific time to leave, or have a friend you can check in with if you need support.
- Stay connected to your people – Keep showing up to your groups. Whether it’s AA, or an ETHOS group, that sense of connection keeps your mindset right.
- Choose safe company – Spend time with friends or family who understand your recovery and can have fun without pressuring you to drink.
Our Commitment to You
At ETHOS Treatment, we know recovery doesn’t take a summer break—and neither do we. Our IOP programs offer flexible scheduling to fit your summer lifestyle. Whether you’re traveling, parenting, or adjusting to a new routine, we’re here to help you stay grounded and focused.
Remember: staying sober doesn’t mean missing out on summer—it means experiencing it fully, with clarity, confidence, and connection. Now that’s something worth showing up for.