Navigating St. Patrick's Day in Recovery: Strategies to Stay Strong
By Stacey Wadden, MSW, RSW
3 minute read
St. Patrick's Day is just around the corner, and while it's a time of celebration, music, and community for many, it can also be one of the most challenging days of the year for people in recovery or those who are struggling with substance use.
Statistics consistently show a significant spike in binge drinking, alcohol-related incidents, drinking and driving, and alcohol poisoning around St. Patrick's Day. If you find yourself feeling anxious, triggered, or unsure how to navigate the day, you are not alone, and there are things you can do to take care of yourself.
Why St. Patrick's Day Can Be Especially Difficult
For people in recovery or those managing substance use, this holiday presents a unique set of pressures:
Alcohol-centred events. Parties and bars are heavily themed around drinking, increasing the availability of alcohol and, in many cases, normalizing or actively encouraging heavy consumption.
Nostalgia and triggers. The sights, sounds, and social atmosphere of these events can stir up past memories and experiences, and for many people, that nostalgia can become a powerful trigger for relapse.
Social pressure. Well-meaning family and friends may not fully understand that even one drink can lead to a relapse. Phrases like "just one won't hurt," while said with the best intentions, can be genuinely harmful.
Loneliness and anxiety. For those in recovery, sitting out of celebrations can bring a deep sense of isolation and heightened anxiety, feelings that are, themselves, common relapse triggers.
Practical Strategies for Getting Through the Day
The most important thing you can do is be intentional about how you plan your day. Here are some strategies to consider:
If you plan to attend an event where alcohol is present:
Bring a sober ally. Choose a trusted friend who understands your recovery and will support you through the evening.
Have an exit plan. Know how you'll leave if things become too difficult and give yourself full permission to use it without guilt.
Consider a sober or alcohol-free celebration:
Sober events are becoming increasingly popular, and there is truly so much more to St. Patrick's Day than drinking. Think about hosting a gathering centred around Irish food and music, cooking traditional meals with friends or family, or finding a local community or cultural event to attend. There are so many ways to mark the day that don't revolve around alcohol.
Lean on your support network:
If attending a meeting feels right for where you are in your journey, know that many recovery meetings are held on holidays specifically because of the added difficulty. And if you're feeling particularly vulnerable leading up to or on the day, don't hesitate to check in with your therapist, sometimes a little extra support is exactly what's needed.
You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone
Recovery is an ongoing journey, and some days are harder than others. St. Patrick's Day doesn't have to be a setback, with the right planning and support, it can be a day where you feel proud of how far you've come.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use or is in need of extra support around the holidays, I provide counselling services at Calming Tree Counselling and Psychotherapy. Reach out and I be glad to support you.
This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace professional mental health advice. If you are in crisis, please contact a mental health professional or call a crisis line in your area.