Hosting a recovery-friendly gathering

The holidays can be a magical time of traditions and togetherness with family and friends. But for someone in recovery from substance use, social gatherings can bring unique challenges. Between office parties, family get-togethers and social events where alcohol and other substances are often present, it can be difficult to navigate the season without feeling left out or pressured to partake. 

If you’re planning to host a gathering this holiday season, a few thoughtful choices can go a long way in making all of your guests feel welcome. Keep reading for our tips to hosting a recovery-friendly event. 

Why is it important to be thoughtful about guests in recovery?

This time of year can be joyful, but also stressful: full social calendars, end-of-year deadlines, financial pressures, complicated family dynamics and unreasonable expectations that can leave anyone feeling drained. For those in recovery, those challenges are compounded by the societal pressure to imbibe, given that alcohol and other substances often take center stage at parties.

Research shows that social pressure to drink is both common and powerful. In fact, many people navigating recovery choose to avoid social gatherings altogether to avoid the pressure to drink. By being intentional about planning for all guests, including those in recovery, you can help everyone enjoy your event.

Simple ways to make a party more recovery-friendly

Offer your guests a variety of choices by stocking non-alcoholic options. Soda, sparkling water, festive mocktails and seasonal drinks like cider are great options. This helps reduce the stigma of whether someone is “drinking or not” by allowing all guests to have some sort of drink in their hand, alcoholic or not. Don’t forget to label all your drinks clearly so guests know what’s alcohol-free.

Small word changes make a big difference. Avoid centering the event around alcohol by calling it a “cocktail party.” A “holiday open house” or “winter celebration” signals that there will be more to do than just drink.

Drinking games are common at parties, but there are plenty of other ways to bring people together to have fun. Plan engaging activities like holiday trivia, icebreaker games or gift exchanges to ensure guests have fun — no drinking required.

If you’re planning to host a gathering this holiday season, a few thoughtful choices can go a long way in making all of your guests feel welcome.

What does it mean to host a recovery-friendly gathering?

When hosting an event, there’s a lot to consider: the menu, the decor, the playlist, just to name a few. Considering your guests’ comfort, especially those in recovery, is simply another layer of hospitality. 

Hosting a recovery-friendly event doesn’t have to mean removing alcohol from the equation completely; there are plenty of ways to offer options so no one feels left out. These gatherings support healthier social norms and reduce stigma around recovery. Think of it not as catering to certain guests, but as planning an event where everyone feels welcome, including those who choose not to drink or are in recovery. 

If you want to learn more about supporting recovery or hosting responsibly, visit our website at  CTI-OK.org or give us a call at 918‑384‑0002.