Summer is here, and with it comes the promise of fun and relaxation. But for those in recovery, this season can be filled with hidden challenges. There’s an old saying in recovery circles: people, places, and things can be triggers for substance use. This means that old friends, familiar hangouts, and past activities associated with drinking or drug use can tempt someone back into old habits.

With summer’s extra free time, it’s crucial to find new, healthy activities to fill your days. And that’s exactly what we at RevCore are here to support you with. Read on to understand more about the rise in summer substance use, and strategies and alternatives to keep yourself and loved ones safe. 

Why do young adults drink and use drugs more in summer?

Of course, people start to use substances all year round, but there is a noticeable increase particularly in the summer.

Research found that over a third of first-time LSD use and over a quarter of first-time cannabis, cocaine, and ecstasy use occurs during summer months in the US.

Why does this happen? A few reasons stand out:

• Idle time: College students are on break, and young adults in the workforce often have more free time. Boredom can lead to experimentation.
• Social events: Summer is packed with activities like pool parties, barbecues, outdoor concerts, and music festivals, many of which involve alcohol and drugs.
• Peer pressure: The urge to fit in at social gatherings can lead to increased substance use.
• Longer evenings: Extended daylight hours mean more time to socialize, often leading to more drinking and drug use.

The dangers of summer substance use

Summer is not just a time when substance use becomes more common — but heat and humidity can make the effects of summer substance use even more dangerous. Indeed, hospital and ER visits for alcohol- and substance-related issues tend to spike during hotter temperatures. 

Summer can also bring on certain mental health challenges, such as anxiety or depression for college students who find themselves lonely, bored, or struggling to find a job. Therefore, substance use can become a form of self-medication to find a source of relief. 

Healthy (and sober) ways to enjoy summer

Summer is a great time to explore new, healthy activities. Here are some ideas to help you stay engaged and enjoy the season without falling into old habits:

1. Try out new creative hobbies 

Look for summer activities, groups, or classes that focus on personal development. Whether it’s cooking, art, or fitness, engaging in new learning experiences can provide a sense of accomplishment and help keep your mind occupied.

2. Explore outdoor activities 

Take advantage of the beautiful weather by exploring nature. Go for hikes, bike rides, or participate in outdoor yoga classes. These activities can be both relaxing and invigorating, and time spent in nature has been found to have incredible benefits for your physical and mental health too.

3. Attend health fairs or sober events

Staying sober doesn’t mean you have to avoid any kind of social events — far from it! There are plenty of great events that have health and wellness as a focus. For instance, we at RevCore regularly organize and participate in health fairs and community events, with fantastic food, excellent resources, and an amazing atmosphere to make summer memories. 

Staying safe from summer substance use

As much as you can try to incorporate new and healthy  activities into your summer, it may be inevitable for you to attend an event that does include substances in some form. In this case, it’s crucial to know strategies to help yourself or your loved ones stay on track.

1. Stay hydrated 

Drinking plenty of water is crucial during the hot summer months, as dehydration can worsen the effects of substance use and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, and more if you’re active or spending time outdoors.

2. Plan for social settings 

When attending summer events, have a strategy in place to manage potential substance use triggers. For example:

• Let friends and family know about your goals for staying sober
• Consider bringing a sober buddy for support
• Opt for non-alcoholic beverages
• Bring your own non-alcoholic drinks to avoid the temptation

3. Know the signs of summer substance use

It’s important to recognize when substance use is becoming a problem, so you can catch the problem before it gets worse or step in for a loved one. Here are some signs to watch for:

• Poor hygiene
• Trouble sleeping
• Weight loss or gain
• Losing interest in hobbies and activities
• Difficulty functioning in daily life
• Increased tolerance
• Using more than intended
• Withdrawal symptoms like headaches, nausea, and sadness
• Constantly thinking about using again
• Secretive behavior
• Engaging in risky activities
• Legal troubles due to substance use

4. Manage your stress 

Engage in stress-reducing activities like exercise, yoga, or meditation to avoid turning to substances as a coping mechanism.

5. Stay connected to professional help 

If you’re struggling to manage summer substance use on your own, professional support is essential. At RevCore, we offer telehealth services, so you can even stay connected to your treatment while you party it up in Ibiza or relax to the tunes of your favorite music festival. No matter where you are, we’re here to support you.

RevCore is here (and goes wherever you go) to help you enjoy summer safely

Summer can be a tricky time for those in recovery, but with the right strategies and support, you can enjoy a safe and sober season. 

I hope the tips above have given you a great start — and if you or a loved one could benefit from greater support, I encourage you to reach out to RevCore at info@revcorerecovery.com. 

Our doors are always open, and we meet clients wherever they are in their journey. We offer comprehensive, non-judgmental substance use and mental health treatment tailored to your needs, including phone treatment for those who want to take their recovery on the road.