Tips for Recovery in Patio Season

Written By Sarah Montes

Staying sober during the summer season can be both rewarding and challenging, especially with the numerous social events and gatherings that often include alcohol. One of the key strategies is to plan ahead by identifying your triggers and setting boundaries for how long you will stay at events, with an exit plan if needed. Attending gatherings with a sober buddy or being open about your decision to stay sober can reduce pressure and create understanding among friends and family. Having alternative drinks, such as mocktails or staying hydrated with non-alcoholic beverages, can help you avoid alcohol.

Engaging in activities that do not center around alcohol, like hiking, sports, or cultural events, can keep you busy and reduce temptation. Taking up a new hobby or learning something new can also occupy your mind and provide a sense of accomplishment. Self-care is crucial; regular exercise can boost your mood and reduce stress, while mindfulness and meditation can help you stay centered and calm.

 Maintaining a strong support network is essential. Continue attending peer support group meetings and, stay connected with a sponsor, therapist, or supportive friends and family. Celebrating milestones and rewarding yourself for staying sober, as well as reflecting on your progress through journaling, can provide positive reinforcement. Limiting exposure to strong triggers and having an exit plan for uncomfortable situations can help you avoid temptations.

Staying informed about addiction and sobriety can keep you motivated. Reading, watching, or listening to inspirational content can reinforce your commitment. If needed, seeking professional help through therapy or enrolling in a structured sober living program can provide additional support. Remember, maintaining sobriety is a personal journey, and finding strategies that work best for you is key to a successful and enjoyable summer.

Helpful hints

  1. Plan Ahead.

  2. Try new or Alternative Drinks / Mocktails.

  3. practice self-care .

  4. Who are your safe people? Bring them along.

  5. Have an exit plan.

  6. Avoid risky situations when you can.

  7. Seek professional Help when needed.

Sarah Montes

Sarah Montes is a Registered Practical Counsellor, Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling RPC, MPCC and a Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor, CCAC, dedicated to helping individuals and families move from the chaos of addiction to the clarity of recovery. As the founder of Sarah Montes Recovery & Associates, she provides a compassionate bridge between clinical expertise and the profound insight that only lived experience can offer.

Sarah is dually credentialed through the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association (CPCA) and the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF). Her robust clinical foundation is built upon specialized training in:

Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Addiction, and Trauma-Informed Professional Addiction Studies

Having held key roles in withdrawal management , as a primary counsellor in residential treatment, and providing one-on-one therapy in various clinical settings, Sarah understands the full continuum of care.

Sarah operates within the Biopsychosocial-Spiritual model, ensuring that healing addresses the whole person—mind, body, community, and spirit. She empowers her clients to reclaim their sovereignty.

A hallmark of Sarah’s practice is her commitment to the family behind addiction. She works extensively with partners, spouses, parents, and loved ones, providing the guidance needed to navigate family dynamics, establish healthy boundaries, and foster collective healing.

Beyond her private practice, Sarah is a prominent voice in the recovery community. She contributes significantly to the field through professional development, public speaking, and advocacy, working tirelessly to reduce the shame and stigma surrounding addiction in all its forms.

Whether working one-on-one or speaking to a crowd, Sarah’s approach remains rooted in empathy, deep understanding, and an unwavering belief in every person’s capacity for a fresh start.

https://www.sarahmontesrecovery.ca
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