If you have recently gone through detox and are new to your recovery journey, it is a good idea to avoid events or situations where it is likely that drugs or alcohol will be present. This is to prevent any potential urges that could jeopardize your sobriety. However, as time goes on, you are bound to want to attend social events and will at one point or another likely come across the situation of being offered a drink. When you decline the offer, there is a chance that someone may be curious about why you don’t drink. This can turn into an awkward encounter for everyone involved, but it doesn’t have to be. It is important for the individual to be prepared for the situation and to have an idea of what they are going to say ahead of time.
Determining Whether or Not to Share Your Sobriety Status
You may be wondering, do I have to tell the truth if someone asks me why I don’t drink? Whether or not you decide to share that you are in recovery is entirely up to you and what you are comfortable with. When making this decision, it is important to consider who is asking the question. Is this someone who you just met who is simply curious? They might not need to be informed about your private business. However, if this is someone you have known a long time and you know they have your best interest at heart, you may be more inclined to tell them. This doesn’t need to be a major conversation, especially when there are other people present. Simply saying “I’m in recovery,” is sufficient. If the individual continues to pry, you can tell them that you aren’t comfortable discussing it.
Responses For When Asked Why You’re Not Drinking
If you’re in a situation where you are not comfortable about discussing your recovery, you don’t have to. There are many other ways you can respond to the question.
#1. “I can’t drink because I’m driving.” (OR the Designated Driver)
This is a simple response that doesn’t require much of an explanation. It shows that you are responsible and take your safety and the safety of others seriously.
#2. “I can’t drink because of how alcohol interacts with my current medication.”
There are some medications that you simply cannot drink because of the reactions it can cause. Some medications, including certain antidepressants, can cause an individual to feel the effects of alcohol much faster. This can lead to becoming more intoxicated than intended and possible risky behaviors. In the case of other medications, drinking can increase the risk of liver damage.
#3. “I’m not drinking because I don’t want to be hungover.”
This is a perfectly reasonable response. When someone has to work the next day and will have to be up early, being hungover can make life pretty miserable.
#4. “I’m not drinking because I’m trying to be healthier.”
It’s no secret that drinking alcohol isn’t great for your health. It is very high in calories and can lead to weight gain and even obesity. It would make sense that someone who is trying to be healthier would decline a drink.
#5. “I’m not drinking because I don’t like the person I become when I drink.”
Not everyone has a good experience when they consume alcohol. Some people may become depressed, agitated, or even angry. They might embarrass themselves or do things that they later regret. This can cause them to choose to stop drinking entirely.
#6. “I don’t enjoy drinking.”
Some people simply have no desire to consume alcohol. They might not like the way it tastes or how it makes them feel.
What to Do When People Keep Asking
Some people tend to be nosey and might inquire further when you explain why you don’t drink. If this is the situation you find yourself in, simply explain to them that this isn’t a topic that you are comfortable discussing. If they continue to pry, it may be best to distance yourself from them and go talk to someone else. In some cases, certain individuals may not respect your recovery and may even try to pressure you to have a drink. If this occurs, walk away immediately and do not associate with them again. No matter what happens, remember that you have nothing to be ashamed of and owe nobody an explanation regarding your sobriety if you don’t want to give them one.
After going through treatment for a substance use disorder, it is typically prudent to avoid places where alcohol will be served. This is so that you avoid any potential urges or triggers. However, as time goes on, you’ll likely find yourself in a situation where people around you are drinking. Thus, there is the possibility that someone may ask why you’re nchoosing ot to drink. If you are not in a situation where you’re comfortable discussing your recovery journey, it can be helpful to have some responses in mind that you can use instead. Some examples could be, “I’m not drinking because I’m driving,” or “I’m not drinking because I am trying to be healthier.” In the case that someone keeps prying for more information, simply tell them you are not comfortable discussing it. If they persist, walk away. At Achieve Concierge, we want to help you live your best life. Call (619) 393-5871 to learn more.