To some a Sober Halloween sounds like an oxymoron similar to “jumbo shrimp” or “working holiday.” Nevertheless, people love jumbo shrimp and look forward to working holidays. If we are feeling positive, a Sober Halloween is possible and maybe even fun!

Where should I go? Do I dress up? What am I going to be? These types of questions lead to reminiscing about past Halloweens. We start to ponder about when trick or treating for candy turned into jello shots, smoking blunts and pill popping? And then we hit the reset button and find our way back on the sober path from our day dream.

Here are 3 easy reminders for when you are feeling challenged this Halloween.

1. Make a Plan A and a Plan B. Be proactive and schedule your sober fun for Halloween day and the weekend as well. Don’t wait until the last minute. Start now!
2. Do not put your sobriety to the test. Do not be with people who are using or attend parties with drugs and alcohol. Know your triggers and stay focused on the sober path.
3. Create new Halloween memories with new people, in new environments. Stop romanticizing the past and start enjoying your present.

May the Force Be with You as you do the next right thing this Season. Happy Halloween from Lifeskills South Florida Outpatient.