Lauren is a licensed clinical social worker having treated individuals struggling with substance use and mental health disorders in both residential and outpatient settings prior to her arrival at High Watch. Lauren has a warm, yet direct approach and believes that the healing relationship built within the therapeutic space is incredibly important for those in recovery from addiction and trauma. She strives to connect, understand, and walk beside each of her clients throughout their process. She understands the importance of individualized care and incorporates various evidence-based practices into both her private and group therapy sessions. She has received training in Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and the 12-steps, Trauma therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Finally, if you are traveling with any other type of disorder keep this in mind too. Bringing those extra items that you may need, like medication if you suffer from migraines, is worth the cost of checking a second bag at the airport. In order to mitigate some of these anxieties, prepare https://ecosoberhouse.com/ yourself by having a “toolbox” at hand. A toolbox can help you be prepared for potential adversity and triggers while also giving you the clearest view of what is to come on your trip. With that said, sometimes just anticipating what a trip will be like can cause anxiety and stress.
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If you are someone who finds peace through nature, scope out some outdoor active activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and rock climbing. If you are traveling with children, check out some local zoos, aquariums, and amusement parks that provide entertainment for the whole family. Think about possible triggers that may arise during your vacation. Crossword puzzles, a page-turner of a book, adult coloring books, listing to music, and guided meditations are some useful tools many people in recovery find helpful. It is also important to remember that your support network is just a phone call or text away. Another popular activity is to take a ‘sober cruise’ where participants enjoy all of the amenities and fun offered by a cruise ship without partaking in alcohol or drug use.
Once you’ve reached this level of comfort you will be better able to relax & have fun. It’s important to be aware of the timing of when you plan a vacation after you’ve been able to maintain a stable period in recovery. But remember that going on vacation may raise some unexpected struggles, obstacles, or stressors which can make the early days of recovery or maintaining your recovery even more challenging. Dr. Williamson has spent her career working closely with clinicians, social workers, and other medical professionals to treat the whole individual on a collaborative manner. She most enjoys building connections with guests and helping them to comprehend the challenges they face in their lives and how best to feel empowered to work through them.
Vacationing While Sober? 3 Ways to Survive
There are even sober music festivals, spas, camping trips, surf and ski getaways, sailing expeditions, safaris, and golf and yoga retreats. In addition to putting away the alcohol and scheduling sober activities and meetings, vacation-goers are surrounded by a supportive community of people in recovery. Art classes, guided tours or other sober activities can validate the fact that you don’t need drugs or alcohol to enjoy a vacation.
One of the greatest challenges of sober travel is doing without your usual support network. Just as you would investigate hotels, flights and sightseeing tours, research local support groups in case you’re in need of re-balancing while you’re away. A number of free smartphone apps are available to help you locate meetings and get support while you’re on the go. Also bring along the phone number of your sponsor and a few trustworthy friends.
Tips for Planning a Vacation in Recovery
A staycation is a perfect way to strengthen your recovery by planning safe activities with people who are supportive of your recovery and who enrich your mind and spirit. Gather a small group of friends and take a walk on the vacationing in recovery beach, a fun day of biking, or get together for coffee and a chat. Especially during this uncertain and stressful time, it’s more important than ever to get some time away – even if it’s at home – to renew and recharge.
Fight boredom that may lead to temptation by creating a checklist of things to do. Of course, don’t push yourself to the point where you’ll need a vacation from your vacation. If you can’t avoid triggers, there are a few ways you can hold yourself accountable for staying sober. If you wish to contact a specific medical detox center then find a specific treatment center using our addiction treatment locator tool.
Dual Diagnosis: Treating Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Things you once enjoyed while under the influence, like traveling, may feel stranger now to navigate without them. Joseph Wessex has been studying Psychology, Addiction, and Clinical Counseling since he began exploring the world of Mental Health and Psychology in 2010. He received a BA in Psychology, certification in Drug and Alcohol Counseling, and a Master’s in Counselor Education with a focus in Clinical Mental Health.
- Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry.
- She believes in the importance of evidence-based practice in preventing relapse, which is a central focus of her work.
- Internationally, he is the Co-founder of Empowering Communities Worldwide, which sponsors and organizes free medical aid missions to traditionally under-served, sub-Saharan African nations.
- On the flip side, vacations can have a positive impact on your recovery when handled properly.
- Feeling overwhelmed trying to plan out your entire vacation when all you want to do is relax?
Longer ventures that involve inexpensive camping or glamping options within national parks or nature reserves are also good options. Convince a few supportive friends and/ or family will allow you to take advantage of any discount passes or housing costs should you, for example, rent an off-season beach house together. Knowing your triggers makes the process of filtering them out easier. Some common triggers include fear of flying, fear of being away from home, fear of the unknown, and fear of getting lost, among others. But if you’re in recovery from addiction, you may have overlooked some of the details that matter most.
