Muse Treatment: Four Practical Tips for a Happy Sober Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving involves a great time for friends and family to come together and celebrate the positive aspects of life to be thankful for. Like any social gathering in America, the prevalence of alcohol will likely appear. While it may seem harmless to have a drink or two, some people struggling to stay sober from alcohol will find it hard to avoid consuming as others around them partake. Despite the influences of the holidays, there are ways to celebrate Thanksgiving with a family member in recovery to experience a happy sober Thanksgiving for all involved.

To have a sober Thanksgiving, try these four tips, which can help ensure you have an enjoyable and responsible holiday celebration:

Offer to be the designated driver. Volunteering to give others a safe ride home can help you stay sober.
Focus on non-alcoholic beverages. Drink plenty of water, tea, coffee, or festive mocktails.
Be prepared to decline offers of alcohol politely. You can say “No, thank you” or “I’m good with this” when offered a drink.
Engage in sober activities like walking, playing games, or enjoying Thanksgiving entertainment on TV.

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Do People Drink During Thanksgiving?

Yes, drinking alcohol is a common occurrence during many Thanksgiving meals. The holiday entails a time of celebration as people gather with family and friends. Alcohol consumption can be a way for people to bond, relax, and enjoy the festive atmosphere socially. Many traditional Thanksgiving dishes, such as turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, are commonly eaten with wine, beer, or cocktails to enhance the flavors and create a more pleasant dining experience.

While Thanksgiving is among the most popular U.S. holidays, with a 79% favorability rating, according to Statista, it can also be stressful for some. The pressures of hosting, cooking large meals, and dealing with family dynamics can lead many people to drink to cope with the stress. The long weekend and time off work associated with the holiday also create more opportunities for people to indulge in alcoholic beverages without the same work or social obligations they may have on a regular day.

How Much Alcohol Is Consumed on Thanksgiving?

The average person has 2.7 drinks on Thanksgiving, according to Drive Research. Alcohol consumption on Thanksgiving can vary significantly, with some people having a sober Thanksgiving and others drinking more heavily, especially in social settings. Overall, Thanksgiving does produce a higher-than-average alcohol consumption compared to a typical day, but not necessarily a large amount compared to other holidays.

Although the holiday is not considered a big drinking day like New Year’s Eve or St. Patrick’s Day, there are still risks involved when it comes to drinking alcohol on Thanksgiving. From 2018-2022, 833 fatalities in traffic crashes involved at least one driver or motorcycle rider who was drunk, defined as having a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher during the Thanksgiving holiday, according to the United States Department of Transportation.

Four Practical Tips for a Happy Sober Thanksgiving

Is Thanksgiving the Biggest Drinking Day?

While people do consume alcohol on Thanksgiving, it is not considered the biggest drinking day. In fact, it is often ranked near the bottom of holidays when it comes to the amount of alcoholic drinks consumed. The holiday is more about giving thanks than partying, like New Year’s Eve or Fourth of July. This makes it possible for people in addiction recovery and practicing sober living to enjoy the holiday without having to consume alcohol.

What Is the Drunkest Day of the Year?

While Thanksgiving is not a big drinking holiday, it does play a role in increasing alcohol consumption. Since Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November and many people have the day and the next day off, an unofficial drinking holiday has popped up the night before, referred to as Blackout Wednesday. While this day does lead to a spike in alcohol consumption, New Year’s Eve is typically considered the biggest drinking day of the year in the U.S.

Access Addiction Treatment at Muse Treatment to Have a Happy Sober Thanksgiving

Staying sober during Thanksgiving is possible, but you must achieve sobriety first. For people struggling with alcohol abuse and wanting a happy sober Thanksgiving, Muse Treatment in Los Angeles offers a variety of addiction treatment services, including alcohol detox and rehabilitation programs. Our individual approach to alcohol addiction treatment ensures each patient receives customized therapy and support, helping them effectively manage alcohol addiction. Muse Treatment is dedicated to supporting you throughout your addiction recovery journey, providing guidance, resources, and a caring community. To begin your journey toward alcohol addiction recovery today, please reach out to Muse Treatment at 800-426-1818 today.