Dealing with Triggers at Social Events

Social events built around drinking can feel like a minefield in early recovery. A little planning goes a long way toward making them manageable instead of stressful.

Have an exit plan before you arrive — drive yourself, or agree on a signal with a friend for when you're ready to leave. Bring your own non-alcoholic drink so you're not explaining yourself all night. Decide in advance how much you're willing to share about your recovery, and it's okay for the answer to be "not much."

Most importantly, give yourself permission to leave early. Protecting your recovery is never rude, even if it feels that way in the moment.