Making the Big Game a sober one

Big Game gatherings can bring up all types of emotions…

Perhaps the big game used to be a time of heavy drinking and using, going to loud bars, or embarrassing yourself in front of others or waking up the next morning and not even remembering who won the game, or how you got home. Then came the feelings of guilt and shame, or “How could I have behaved that way? I’m never going to do that again.”

Gatherings like the Big Game can still be occasions for fun, but like the Philadelphia Eagles or the New England Patriots, each team will go onto the field with a plan. So should we!

1. Be the Quarterback

Have a plan to win the big game. Treat the day as any other 24-hour period of time. Go in with the mind-set of winning and that you will go to “any lengths” to achieve victory over alcohol and drugs

2. Defense. Defense. Defense! Build Your Line!

There are many different 12-Step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), Marijuana Anonymous (MA), and Cocaine Anonymous (CA). However, in the Chicago area, there are more Alcoholics Anonymous meetings available. Many individuals can go to any of the meetings above, regardless of their drug of choice. The only requirement is the desire to stop using a substance.

3. Consult Your Coach/Sponsor

Talk to your sponsor ahead of time and let him or her know of your plan. Ask what they did when they went to their first Big Game party and draw from their wisdom and experience. Chances are, they have been there before and will be able to offer coaching and guidance.

4. Focus on the End Zone

Now that you’ve prepared yourself adequately for the Big Game, go ahead and enjoy yourself. Find ways you can be of service at the party (pick up some cups, offer to take out the garbage, stay occupied). Root for your favorite team and have a great time. Life’s Waiting!

The greatest gift you can give yourself, your family, and friends during the Big Game is recovery!