Sober College had its annual "How to Stay Sober over the Holidays Workshop", last weekend. The workshop tailored to residents emotions was designed to point out triggers, identify what to do in an emergency when someone feels like using, and to help residents stay sober over the holidays, especially those newly sober in rehab.
The students began with the assignment to list triggers that might make it hard for them to stay sober over the holiday. Responses included dealing with parents, seeing old friends, going to slippery places, and boredom. Next, students participated in the sober vision board with the instruction to find a living graphical representation that was the same age as their sobriety. "The students really got to take a look at the preciousness of their sobriety. I believe this affected them far deeper than we realize," explained Loree Cohen, LCSW, Executive Director.
Sober College had several staff speakers personally share how they stay sober themselves. "Rob G. was great, giving plenty of personal examples. He urged residents going home and those staying at campus to remain close to their Sober College family and to call each other frequently. He told them to take it easy when they went home, not to get into altercations with their parents, and to understand that regaining trust takes time. When Katie spoke, both as a sober person, but also as Family Coordinator, she let residents know from the parent's perspective how nervous the parents are. I really believe the residents appreciated this," stated Cohen.
Residents created a four-page credit-card size "Stay Sober Holiday ER" booklet. Residents were asked to put their name on the front, list five numbers to call, and a few short words about their best day sober vs. worst day using. Each resident had to show their completed worksheet and booklet before leaving. At 1:30 pm they were off for a softball game.
About Sober College:Sober College, headquartered in Southern California, is a small private institution providing alcohol and drug treatment environments for young adults age 17 to 26. The Sober College curriculum builds core competencies in life skills, employment, academics, emotional well-being and fitness. For further information visit our website at www.sobercollege.com or call 800-465-0142.