Spring Break Sober

The Dangers of Spring Break Binge Drinking

With the season of spring break upon us, it can be beneficial to reflect on what it means to abuse substances, especially as it relates to alcohol, a drug that society largely regards with ambivalence. Although harmful to mental and physical health, binge drinking is a behavior that seems to ramp up during spring break.

Binge drinking is defined as consuming four or more drinks for females and five or more drinks for males on a single occasion. A study of college students revealed that during spring break, males consumed an average of 18 alcoholic drinks daily and females consumed up to 10 drinks daily.

Despite the prevalence of the dangerous behavior, binge drinking is not only unnecessary for enjoying spring break, but it can also keep you from embracing spring break festivities with full, present awareness. 

In this video, Wasatch Crest’s Women’s Transitional Living Manager Becky Wheelock and Lead Medical Technician and Recovery Advocate Lauren Colvin host a discussion on the dangers of binge drinking and give their tips on staying sober this spring break.

Watch: Spring Break Sober

Five Tips for Staying Sober This Spring Break

The pressure to drink or use substances can be hard to ignore, especially in early recovery. Below, dive into some tips for staying sober this spring break. 

1. Speak to your sponsor. If you have one, a sponsor can provide you with guidance and support throughout spring break. 
2. Invite a sober friend: If you plan on being in settings where others are drinking, having a sober friend by your side can keep you on track. 
3. Bring your favorite, fancy non-alcoholic beverage. At backyard barbecues and beach outings, indulge in a non-alcoholic beverage you don’t normally drink to help curb any cravings. 
4. Plan an alternative spring break getaway: Attend a yoga retreat, take a volunteer trip, or go on an adventure that’s been calling your name. When you return, you’ll feel rested and ready to take on school, work, and everything else life brings your way.  
5. Stay positive: You’re healthier when you’re sober, so use your energy, mood, and present state of mind to your advantage by enjoying more experiences this spring. 

Springtime Addiction Treatment in the Mountains

Though not always the case, binge drinking can serve as an indicator of a substance use disorder (SUD). When substance use becomes compulsive, interferes with a person’s ability to perform daily tasks, and disrupts their relationships, addiction may be at the root of the struggle.

Wasatch Crest offers healing, human-centered addiction treatment to individuals ages 18 and older. This spring, the mountains coming back alive can provide the perfect inspiration for creating a new story in sobriety. To learn more about our residential and outpatient addiction treatment programs in Utah’s majestic Wasatch Range, reach out to us.