group of friends celebrating outside during the winter

Celebrate Sober

As we approach this season of celebration, Howard Center remains committed to offering support and resources for those who wish to celebrate sober. If you or a loved one need support, Howard Center’s main number is 802-488-6000, or our First Call for Chittenden County crisis line 802-488-7777 is available 24/7/365.

Help is Here.

Our Substance Use Treatment Programs

  • CHITTENDEN CLINIC (hub services) • medications for opioid use disorder treatment • individual and group counseling • psychiatric consultation • care management • coordination with other medical and therapeutic providers 802-488-6450

 

Recovery is Possible

 

Explore Recovery Options


Tips for Celebrating Sober

  • Prepare for Potential Challenges: Acknowledge and plan for situations that could test your resolve, including celebratory events that traditionally involve alcohol.
  • Embrace Sober Free Socializing: Engage in pastimes or gatherings that promote a substance-free lifestyle, such as outdoor activities, crafts, or cultural events.
  • Prioritize Wellness: Balance rest with activity, ensure nutritional needs are met, and incorporate mindfulness or meditation to maintain focus on well-being.
  • Establish Boundaries: Be clear with friends and family about your decision to remain sober and enlist their support.
  • Craft an Exit Strategy: Have a reliable transportation method and a trusted contact on standby should you decide to leave an event early. 
  • Find Strength in Community: Connect with support groups or networks that celebrate sobriety, which can offer companionship and understanding during the holidays.
  • Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge the progress you or your loved ones have made in sobriety — no matter how small. Each celebration is a testament to strength and commitment.
  • Supportive Dialogue: Maintain open communication with a confidant who can provide encouragement and perspective during challenging times.

Howard Center, the State of Vermont, and several organizations throughout Vermont provide excellent programs to help you get (and stay) sober this year. Please click on the button below to get local, state, and national resources or to seek help.

Articles about Celebrating Sober

Impaired Driving: What is too much?

Stories of Recovery

Tips for Surviving the Holidays

Information About Opiates, Marijuana, and More

The following videos include information presented by Howard Center staff and community professionals for our Community Education Series:

Understanding Opioid Addiction

Marijuana Use and Driving


Local ResourcesNational ResourcesArticles & Publications
First Call For Chittenden County
National Suicide HelplineHoward Center Programs
Vermont Care PartnersNational Council for Behavioral HealthSuicide Prevention Guide
Partners for AccessSAMHSA National HelplineFacts about Depression
Vermont 2-1-1
NAMIMental Health Literacy
Pathways VermontChild Mind InstituteWellness Tips
VT HelplinkNational Institute of Mental HealthTips for Parents of Teens
Vermont Department of Mental HealthMental Health AmericaKeeping your home safe
AALVDepression & Bipolar Support AllianceColumn: Easing Stress
Vermont Suicide Prevention CenterCrisis Text LineVT Department of Mental Health - MHAM Newsletter
Vermont Federation of Families for Children's Mental HealthHELP Poster
Vermont Family Network
Pride Center of Vermont
Invest EAP
Age Well

Additional Resources