How to Support a Loved One Staying Sober This Christmas
Christmas is often filled with festive cheer, food, drinks, and gatherings but for someone who’s chosen sobriety, it can also be one of the most difficult times of the year. Whether your loved one is early in their recovery or has been sober for years, the holiday season can bring unexpected pressure.
As a friend or family member, your support can make a world of difference. Knowing how to help, what to say, and what to avoid can create a more inclusive and comfortable space for everyone.
Summary: This blog offers practical advice on how to support someone staying sober during the Christmas season. From thoughtful planning to emotional encouragement, small gestures can go a long way in helping your loved one feel included and respected. If you're not sure where to start, this guide will walk you through it.
Why Christmas Can Be Challenging for People in Recovery
The holiday season is usually associated with alcohol, champagne toasts, office parties, backyard barbecues, and family dinners. For someone in recovery, this can be overwhelming.
Other challenges include:
Pressure from friends or family to "just have one"
Emotional stress, loneliness, or reminders of past trauma
Boredom or discomfort in social situations centred around alcohol
Feeling like the odd one out at events
Understanding these triggers is the first step toward providing meaningful support.
How You Can Help: Practical Ways to Support Sobriety
1. Ask What They Need
Don’t assume. Everyone’s recovery journey is different. Ask your loved one how you can support them this Christmas. Some may appreciate you removing alcohol from gatherings, while others may be okay with it as long as it’s not offered to them.
A simple, private chat like “Would it help if we kept this alcohol-free?” can show care and respect.
2. Make Alcohol-Free Options Normal
Offer appealing non-alcoholic alternatives like sparkling water, alcohol-free wine or beer, or festive mocktails. Serve them in the same glasses used for alcoholic drinks, so your loved one doesn’t feel singled out. Don’t make a big deal out of who is and isn’t drinking, just include everyone equally.
3. Avoid Questioning Their Sobriety
Comments like “Just one drink won’t hurt” or “Are you still off the booze?” might seem harmless but can be incredibly unhelpful. Recovery is a deeply personal journey, and it’s not your place to test it.
Instead, let your support speak for itself. Choose words that empower, not pressure.
4. Create a Sober-Friendly Environment
If you're hosting, consider making your event a sober-friendly zone or carving out a quiet space if things become overwhelming. Keep conversations inclusive and focus on connection over consumption.
Board games, music, outdoor activities, or a bonfire can shift the focus from drinking to bonding.
5. Be Their Safe Exit
Let them know it’s okay to leave early or skip certain events. Offer to go with them, drive them home, or check in with a message later. Knowing someone has their back can make tough moments more manageable.
Words That Help
Here are a few things you can say:
“I'm really proud of you.”
“Let me know what you need.”
“I respect your choice.”
“Want to grab a soda or make a mocktail?”
A little empathy goes a long way.
If You're Struggling to Support Someone
It's okay not to have all the answers. Supporting someone in recovery is a learning process, especially during emotionally charged times like Christmas. If you're unsure, don't stay silent — ask or seek advice.
And if your loved one is still struggling with substance use and hasn’t taken the first step, now might be the right time to gently open the conversation.
Want to Help a Loved One Take the First Step?
If someone you care about is ready to stop drinking but doesn’t know where to start, Southern Highlands Addiction Retreat offers professional support in a peaceful, private setting. Our team helps people build healthy routines, develop life skills, and reconnect with what truly matters.
Give them the space to reset — surrounded by nature and supported by experts.
Explore our programs or reach out today.
Key Takeaways
Christmas can be a difficult time for people in recovery, with alcohol often playing a central role in social gatherings.
Thoughtful planning, respect, and clear communication can help your loved one feel safe and included.
Small changes like having alcohol-free drinks or creating a judgment-free space, can have a huge impact.
Your role isn’t to fix everything, but to offer steady, compassionate support when it’s needed most.
FAQ
Should I remove all alcohol from an event if someone is sober?
Ask first. Some people in recovery are okay with alcohol being present, others aren’t. The best thing is to check in and respect their preference.
What if someone slips and drinks?
Avoid judgement. Slips can be part of recovery. Focus on offering support and encourage professional help if needed.
Is it okay to talk about their recovery with others?
No. Their recovery is private unless they choose to share it. Always respect confidentiality.
What if I don’t know what to say?
Keep it simple and genuine. “I’m here if you need anything” is often enough.
