Looking ahead to a social event where drinking would be the normal choice was and continues to be somewhat of a concern for me as well. I think the best thing I’ve done has been to come at those occasions head on and honestly. Avoiding those events causes depression and social isolation, and that, in addition to the January blahs is something I can’t take. So, if the norm has been to hang out after work on Fridays at the bar with my colleagues, I’ve continued to do so?enjoying a club soda. If anyone said anything, the answer was “just taking a break” and that was it. so far, that’s all anyone needs to hear. Interestingly, This “coming out” related to one of my colleagues and one on one he confided in me his own concerns about his drinking. It’s relieving to have a bit of a partner in crime! I continue to do the things i has been doing (poorly, rudely, slobbily) while drinking, only now without drinking. And it’s fine. I hope to continue to find the joy in sober socializing and I wish you luck in facing your Saturday!
