Celebrating the Season Safely
While many of us look forward to holiday celebrations, it is important to be mindful of increased risks this time of year, including impaired driving and underage substance use. During the holiday season, alcohol consumption rises as many activities center around alcoholic beverages, and some turn to alcohol or other substances to navigate holiday challenges such as loneliness, stress, or challenging family dynamics. This can make participating in celebrations especially hard for those working on cutting down or avoiding drinking.
We all have a role to play in contributing to a joyful and safe holiday for our friends, family, and community members.
Here are some tips from our friends at the Howard Center on celebrating sober. This is also a great way to disassociate holiday celebrations and alcohol consumption for the teens and young adults we care about. Celebrate Sober - Howard Center
If you are planning on drinking out this New Year's Eve, check out this Vermont attorney who offers ride reimbursement of up to $50 to help improve Vermont road safety. No DWI Sober Holiday Rides Initiative: Sabbeth Law (note: We reached out to Sabbeth Law and while their website might not be up-to-date yet, they confirmed they will still be doing this annual program). Please direct all questions about the reimbursement program directly to them on their website.
The Merry Mocktail, Photo courtesy of Pinch of Yum
One concept that’s gaining popularity is the addition of a mocktail list or bar to your holiday party planning. This year, Evan partnered with Pride Center staff to offer mocktail options at a monthly LGBTQ+ nightlife event that occurs at Burlington bars. He shared, “It was really eye-opening to see just how much fun people had choosing the alcohol-free options instead. So many guests came up and thanked me, or shared a story about how alcohol has impacted them (especially during the pandemic), and were really happy to have the option. Most importantly, people stayed hydrated and got home safely!”
For your next holiday party, try this alcohol-free refreshing and zingy Rosemary Pom Spritzer, dubbed the Merry Mocktail. Made with rosemary, clove, pomegranate juice and fresh lime, this drink is a perfect treat for winter celebrations.
Should Parents Let Teens Drink Alcohol As Long As It’s Under Their Roof? Experts Weigh In.
Most underage drinking occurs in private settings such as home parties. While you may be tempted to offer your teen an alcoholic beverage, or you may think your child is safer consuming alcohol under your supervision, the research is clear: alcohol is not healthy for a developing brain. Youth who begin drinking in their teens are at greater risk of developing problems such as alcohol dependence, or an alcohol use disorder.
