Summer brings longer days, more social events, and a fresh energy that can feel exciting—but for those in recovery, it can also bring unique challenges. With barbecues, vacations, and more opportunities for social gatherings, it’s important to stay mindful of your wellness and recovery goals. Here’s how to prioritize self-care, find joy, and embrace a fulfilling sober summer.

  1. Refresh Your Routine: Summer offers a great chance to reassess your daily habits. Whether it’s adjusting your morning routine, spending more time outdoors, or setting new wellness goals, take time to check in with yourself. Recovery is a journey—adapt it to fit the season in a way that feels good for you.
  2. Stay Connected to Your Support System: With people traveling and schedules shifting, it’s easy to feel disconnected. Make an effort to stay in touch with sober friends, support groups, and mentors. If you’re traveling, research your destination ahead of time for in-person meetings. If meetings aren’t available in person, explore virtual recovery communities to maintain connection and encouragement.
  3. Plan Sober-Friendly Activities: There’s so much to enjoy in summer beyond the pressures of substancel-related events. Try new activities that support your recovery like hiking, beach days, music festivals with sober sections, or simple backyard gatherings where you set the tone. Having go-to sober plans can help you avoid triggers and embrace positive experiences.
  4. Set Boundaries for Social Events: Summer can bring invites to parties or situations where alcohol and other substances are present. Before attending, decide what feels safe for you—whether that’s bringing a sober friend, arriving with a set exit plan, or skipping certain events entirely. Protecting your peace is more important than pleasing others.
  5. Prioritize Self-Care & Mindfulness—Use the natural energy of summer to focus on wellness.
    • Try grounding exercises outdoors—sit in the grass, feel the breeze, observe the sounds around you.
    • Stay hydrated & nourish your body—refresh with seasonal fruits, water, and meals that energize you.
    • Take time to rest & reflect—whether it’s journaling, meditating, or simply enjoying quiet time.
  6. Acknowledge & Celebrate Your Growth: Recovery is full of milestones, big and small. Acknowledge your progress, whether you’ve hit a new sobriety marker or simply navigated a tough situation with strength. Summer can be a season of renewal—embrace it as a time to find joy in your journey and celebrate the life you’re building.
  7. Keep Perspective: One Day at a Time: Warm weather and social events may feel overwhelming at times. If challenges arise, lean on your recovery tools, take a deep breath, and remind yourself that you’ve already come so far. Every choice you make to support your wellness is a step toward a fulfilling, empowered life.

Summer can be a time of growth, fun, and renewal in recovery. By prioritizing wellness, setting boundaries, and staying connected, you can embrace a season filled with strength and joy—on your own terms.

Wishing you a summer filled with peace, self-care, and celebration of all you’ve achieved!