The warm weather, longer days, and social buzz of summer can bring excitement, but for those in recovery, it can also come with unexpected challenges. If you’re in recovery, you might wonder: Can a sober summer still be fun? The answer is a resounding yes.
Roaring Brook Recovery believes that recovery isn’t about limitation; it’s about rediscovery. Our approach is rooted in the belief that life in sobriety should be full of connection, purpose, and adventure. Whether you’re navigating your first summer in recovery or simply looking for new ways to stay grounded, you deserve a season that supports your healing and celebrates your growth.
With the right mindset and a little planning, you can create a summer that aligns with your recovery goals. Here are some ways to enjoy the season while staying true to yourself and your sobriety.
Sober-Friendly Summer Activities
You don’t have to sacrifice fun to enjoy a sober summer. In fact, this season is the perfect time to try new things, reconnect with yourself, and build healthy habits that support lasting recovery.
Outdoor adventures
Spending time in nature can be both grounding and revitalizing. Roaring Brook Recovery often integrates nature into the healing process, and summer is an ideal time to explore that connection. Whether it’s through:
- A hike on a scenic trail.
- A peaceful paddle down a nearby river.
- A picnic in a local park.
- A leisurely swim in the lake.
Outdoor activities offer moments of clarity, joy, and reflection, without the pressure of substances.
Creative & therapeutic fun
Summer also invites us to slow down and express ourselves. Creative outlets like painting, crafting, or photography allow you to process emotions and make meaningful memories. Journaling can be especially powerful—whether you’re documenting personal milestones or simply writing about your day, it can deepen self-awareness and reinforce your progress.
Community & connection
Staying connected is key. Try:
- Attending 12-step meetings (here are resources to find meetings in the Lexington area: AA, NA, and SMART Recovery).
- Joining sober social events like movie nights, dancing, or bowling.
- Getting involved in volunteer work.
These are great ways to meet like-minded people and build accountability. Giving back through local initiatives like food banks or community gardens can also be a fulfilling way to stay engaged and present.
There are endless ways to make your sober summer enjoyable—on your own terms, and at your own pace.
Staying Grounded in Your Recovery
A fulfilling sober summer doesn’t mean avoiding every social situation—it means approaching them with intention and having the right tools in place to protect your progress.
Prepare for social settings
Summer gatherings can be unpredictable, especially when alcohol or drugs are involved. Prepare yourself with strategies that promote confidence and peace of mind:
- Practice what you’ll say if someone offers you a drink—simple scripts can go a long way.
- Bring your own non-alcoholic beverages so you have something in hand.
- Set an exit plan ahead of time in case you begin to feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed.
These moments don’t define your progress—they’re opportunities to listen to your needs and honor your recovery. Alongside personal preparation, having structured support can make all the difference.
Stay connected to structure
For those needing extra stability this summer, Roaring Brook Recovery’s intensive outpatient program (IOP) offers:
- Individual therapy: One-on-one sessions to address personal triggers and goals.
- Group therapy: Peer support with others in recovery.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Combination of medication (if needed) with therapies to support recovery.
- Evidence-based therapies: Including CBT and trauma-informed approaches.
- Experiential therapies: Music therapy, breathwork, and hiking to build coping skills and support whole-person healing.
- Family therapy: Healing relationships and strengthening support systems.
These comprehensive services create a strong foundation, but your daily choices matter too.
Use your tools
Techniques such as breathwork and neurofeedback—available through our programming—can support emotional regulation and help you stay centered during stressful moments. Practicing these regularly can reinforce your sense of balance throughout the summer.
Set personal goals
A sober summer is perfect for reflecting on what brings you joy and fulfillment. Whether you aim to:
- Strengthen relationships
- Complete a 30-day sober challenge
- Try a new therapy modality
- Improve your health
- Learn something new
Setting meaningful goals keeps your recovery moving forward—something we prioritize through our goal-oriented treatment model.
Your Best Sober Summer Awaits
Sobriety isn’t the end of fun—it’s the beginning of experiencing life more fully, with clarity, purpose, and genuine connection. A sober summer gives you the chance to rediscover what brings you joy, build deeper relationships, and create lasting memories that align with your values and your healing.
If you or someone you love could use additional support this season, Roaring Brook Recovery is here to help. We’ll meet you where you are and walk alongside you as you take the next steps forward.
Call us or visit our website to learn more about how we can support your journey toward a healthier, more connected life.
You deserve a summer—and a life—that feels good from the inside out.
FAQs: Your Sober Summer Questions Answered
1. How can I stay motivated in my sobriety during summer gatherings?
Lean on your 12-step principles, bring a sober friend for support, prioritize self-care by getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and honoring your boundaries. You can find support through Roaring Brook’s trauma-informed tools like breathwork or journaling. Remember, every “no” to alcohol is a “yes” to your growth.
2. Are there sober communities or events near Lexington, KY?
Yes! Lexington has a growing network of sober meetups, recovery-focused fitness groups, and substance-free social events. You can check out Recovery Cafe to find a community for those in recovery. Roaring Brook also offers ongoing community-building opportunities through peer support, alumni engagement, and sober housing support to help you stay connected beyond treatment.
3. What should I do if I feel tempted to relapse this summer?
Pause and check in with yourself. Cravings are normal, especially during triggering times. Use coping tools like mindfulness or journaling, and don’t hesitate to contact your support network, call your sponsor, or attend a 12-step meeting. You can also reach out to our team for additional guidance—we’re always here to help you navigate difficult moments.
4. Can I continue outpatient or IOP treatment during the summer?
Absolutely. Our flexible intensive outpatient program is designed to fit your schedule while keeping you connected to clinical care, peer support, and therapeutic growth—even during busy summer months.
6. How can Roaring Brook Recovery support me in staying sober?
We offer a whole-person approach to recovery, from our partial hospitalization program, IOP, individual and group therapy, to sober housing and alumni support. Whether you’re just beginning or continuing your journey, we’ll tailor your care to meet your needs—with empathy, expertise, and a deep respect for your path forward.