Sober Curious? Try Dry January

As we step into the new year, many of us look for ways to reset and rejuvenate. What about starting 2024 by trying Dry January? This month-long challenge invites individuals to abstain from alcohol and focus on health, wellness, and self-improvement.

What is Dry January?

Dry January is a popular trend where people refrain from drinking alcohol throughout January. It began in 2012 as a public health initiative by Alcohol Change UK and has gained popularity in the US. In 2024, a quarter of Americans reported completing Dry January, according to CivicScience.

Why try Dry January?

There are many physical health benefits from even just 30 days without alcohol. One study found such effects as better sleep, increased energy, weight loss, and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

For the “sober curious,” Dry January can offer an opportunity to reset and refocus on health goals, especially after the holiday season. It also allows individuals to sample sobriety without the pressure of a long-term commitment.

Benefits Beyond January

In addition to the health benefits, taking a break from alcohol can offer a chance to reflect on your habits. Here are some questions to consider:  

  • What role does alcohol play in my life?
  • Why am I drinking this amount?
  • How do I feel without it?

Dry January can reveal signs of potential substance use issues, indicating it may be time to seek professional help. If you are not sure where to start, start at The Council. Our team can provide guidance and referrals to support your unique situation, regardless of your ability to pay. Call us at 713-942-4100 or start online.

Tips for a Successful Dry January

  • Find a non-alcoholic substitution, like mocktails, sparkling water, or non-alcoholic beer or wine.
  • Pair up with a like-minded friend or family member to complete the challenge together.
  • Keep a positive mindset and view Dry January as a form of self-care rather than a punishment.
  • Consider a new way to cope in social settings, like stepping outside for breathing exercises.

Note: Dry January is not recommended for those who are daily or near daily heavy drinkers (4+ drinks), as quitting alcohol abruptly can lead to mild to severe withdrawal symptoms such as hallucinations, delirium, racing heart rate, and fever. Seek immediate medical help if you suffer any of these symptoms.

Supporting Those in Recovery during the Holiday Season

As the holidays approach, a time usually filled with joy and celebration, it can also spark a range of emotions, especially for families navigating the complexities of recovery. Whether it’s a loved one overcoming addiction, managing mental health challenges, or healing from a significant life change, the holiday season can present unique hurdles.

In this blog post, we will share meaningful ways to support family and friends during this time, ensuring that the spirit of love and togetherness is still felt while creating an environment conducive to healing and growth.

Keep expectations realistic

Acknowledge that the holidays may look different, especially when celebrating with someone in early recovery, but different isn’t bad. You may need to adjust plans or skip some of your usual activities to be mindful of their needs. This transition may be hard for everyone, but it is important to help them (and yourself) realize the holidays can still be enjoyable.  

Express your support

Your loved one may be especially vulnerable during this time. Ask them, “What do you need from me to feel supported during this time?” Offer empathy, compassion, and positive communication. It is important to be mindful of their sobriety, but avoid making a show out of catering to them. Remember that connection is important.

Be open

Be open to hearing about triggers and cravings. Talking about them does not mean they will lead anywhere. Not talking about them is riskier.

Strategize an exit plan

Help your loved one create an exit plan for potentially triggering situations – let them know they have an “out” with you. Reassure them that you will support their choices, even if others are uncomfortable with the changes. Try to give grace and understanding if the recovering person misses an event or has to leave early.

Find support for yourself

Recovery is hard for families and friends too, so have a trusted person or two that you can lean on. The Council is also ready to support and guide you, even if your loved one is not seeking help here, through group meetings and more. Give us a call at 713.942.4100 or visit our website at any time. We invite you to join us on January 11 for the Wayfinders workshop to learn therapy-based skills about navigating a loved one’s addiction while also caring for yourself.

Maintaining Recovery during the Holiday Season

The winter holidays are usually a time of celebration, but for those in recovery, they can also bring added challenges. With the pressure of social gatherings, heightened expectations, and the overall emphasis on happiness, the holiday season can test your commitment to recovery in ways that other times of the year don’t.

In this blog, we’ll explore practical strategies for maintaining recovery during the holidays, whether you’re newly in recovery or have years under your belt. From navigating tricky social situations to finding moments for self-care, The Council is here to help turn this season into one of strength, joy, and resilience in recovery.

Keep expectations realistic

Just like with any other disease, substance abuse does not take a vacation just because the calendar says so. It’s important to keep expectations for yourself realistic in how you will maintain your recovery. Know your holidays may look different, but different isn’t bad.

Set healthy boundaries

Saying “no” can be one of the most empowering acts of self-care. It is more about being honest about what you can and can’t handle. Try to let go of the guilt of what you “should” do and prioritize what protects your recovery. One missed holiday event is worth being present for the next 10, 20, 30…

Surround yourself with the right people

Spend time with people who already know your struggle and can be there for you if the environment becomes a challenge to your sobriety or mental health.

Have an exit plan

If things don’t feel right, you might need to excuse yourself quickly. So before you go, think about how you will leave. Have your own transportation, ride-share apps installed, or a supportive friend ready to pick you up. Maintain your boundaries and remember that you are in control.

Schedule something to look forward to

Having something positive on your calendar can boost your spirits so plan an activity that excites you, whether it’s volunteering or attending a sober event. Mark your calendar for the Sober Recreation Committee bowling event on December 7 or come volunteer at The Council.

Reach out for support

If you’re wondering whether to reach out for support or not, go ahead and reach out now. The Council is ready to guide you through this season. We have over 15 different recovery group meetings on our campus and recovery support services available. Call us at 713.942.4100 or visit our website anytime for assistance.

The Council on Recovery Earns Three-Year CARF Accreditation

CARF logo

We are excited to share that after intense review, The Council has received a three-year accreditation from The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

Since our founding in 1946, The Council on Recovery has been at the forefront of helping individuals and families whose lives have been impacted by alcoholism, drug addiction, and co-occurring mental health disorders. 

We are proud to demonstrate our continued commitment to excellence by receiving a three-year accreditation from The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services. CARF officially recognizes health and human service providers as having met rigorous standards for quality of service.

Achieving accreditation clearly shows The Council’s dedication to delivering safe, effective, and high-quality services and commitment to ongoing improvement.  

A three-year accreditation is the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization, following a rigorous peer review process and on-site visits. CARF accreditation gives confidence to our community that The Council is the place to start. 

For more information about CARF International, the standards, or the accreditation process, visit www.carf.org.

Houstonian Brené Brown Helps The Council on Recovery to Raise More Than $932,000

Brené Brown Luncheon

Houstonian and New York Times bestseller Brené Brown inspired a crowd of more than 1,500 Houstonians at The Council on Recovery’s 40th Annual Spring Luncheon on Friday, April 19, 2024. Co-chaired by Diane Erbstoesser, Pasha & George Joseph, and Neeraj Parasher, the event raised more than $932,000 to help individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions.

Board of Trustees member Jerri Duddlesten Moore welcomed guests and highlighted the Speaker Series’ legacy of education and awareness. Executive Pastor Matt Russell from Chapelwood United Methodist Church provided the invocation. 

The Council’s President and CEO, Mary H. Beck, LMSW, CAI, emphasized that recovery is at the heart of the organization’s mission. She highlighted the organization’s expansion of services and capacity over the past two years, which aimed to reduce stigma and enhance campus events. “Today is a living, breathing testament to this mission,” emphasizing the luncheon’s impact in fighting addiction stigma and fostering recovery paths. Beck also stressed the ongoing commitment to this mission beyond the event, stating, “Our mission lives on beyond these walls,” as she outlined initiatives to expand treatment, develop future leaders, and enhance community partnerships. Beck affirmed their continuous effort to transform lives, underscoring, “We continue to approach our work with intent and passion.”

Luncheon Co-Chairs Pasha & George Joseph, and Neeraj Parasher followed with moving testimonials on how addiction has impacted their own lives.

George Joseph highlighted the transformative impact of addiction recovery, sharing his own experiences and the pivotal role of community support. He emphasized the significance of recovery efforts, stating, “One person’s recovery can affect hundreds and prevent generations of dysfunction.” 

Joseph praised Houston’s extensive recovery resources, noting its position as home to the largest Council in Recovery. He celebrated the community’s role in reducing stigma and educating others about addiction, underscoring the importance of events like the luncheon in spreading awareness and support.

Neeraj Parasher shared his transformative journey from addiction to recovery, emphasizing the profound role of hope in his life. He recounted the despair of waking up alone on Christmas Day 2018, a pivotal moment that led him to seek help. “I’m just thankful to be alive and free,” Neeraj expressed, grateful for the support from his sponsor and the Alcoholics Anonymous community that heard his “screams for help.” 

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He credits his wife, Morgan, with providing constant support and a reason to maintain his sobriety. Neeraj also highlighted his rewarding involvement with The Council’s Cradles program, where he plays Santa at their Annual Holiday Party, describing it as the most wonderful part of his year. Through his experiences, Neeraj has redefined what it means to live a consequential life, aiming to be a reliable presence for others struggling with addiction.

Board of Trustees Chair Amanda Polich reflected on the Council’s commitment to making treatment accessible, noting, “We made a promise never to turn away a family in need of treatment.” To fulfill this promise, the luncheons have raised over $22.2 million. Despite the growth in treatment options and innovations, the cost remains a significant barrier. 

To address this, Polich announced the launch of The Council’s Treatment Fund, seeded by a $150,000 donation from an anonymous donor. She urged attendees to contribute, using the donation methods provided at their tables, ensuring that all funds raised would directly support families in need of treatment.

Keynote Speaker Brené Brown then took the stage in an entertaining, thoughtful, and inspiring speech. Brené Brown shared poignant reflections on the importance of sobriety in her life, stating, “Every meaningful and important thing in my life, I owe to my sobriety.” She emphasized the transformative role of connection in overcoming addiction, remarking, “In the absence of connection, there is always suffering.” 

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Brown highlighted the contrast between addiction’s isolation and the community’s power, expressing gratitude for organizations like The Council that champion support for those unable to afford treatment. She noted, “I’m so grateful for The Council and their commitment to doing work on the hardest edges of love.” 

Brown’s message underscored the necessity of community and mutual support in recovery, concluding with a powerful reminder: “We don’t have to do it alone. We were never meant to.”

A Conversation with Dan Cartwright, Recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award

Since our founding in 1946, The Council has been able to continue and expand upon our mission because of the incredible individuals who have stepped up and supported us. For three decades, Daniel S. Cartwright has been one of those individuals. Dan began serving The Council as a volunteer shortly after starting his recovery journey, and throughout the years, he has become one of our most committed and generous leaders. He served on various Council boards for more than a decade, including serving as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, before joining our Honorary Lifetime Board in 2008.

Among his many contributions, Dan served on the steering committee for The Council’s Restoring Hope, Rebuilding Lives capital campaign, which raised $11 million for the construction of our beautiful campus. He received The Council’s Jay Waggoner Service Award in 2005 and is also a devoted supporter of our annual Holiday Party, which delivers gifts and seasonal cheer to families in a safe, sober environment. He is a steadfast supporter of our Speaker Series luncheons, and through his influence, has helped open the door to recovery for an untold number of lives.

For his unwavering support of The Council and Houston’s recovery community, Dan will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at The Council’s 2023 Fall Luncheon with Craig Ferguson. We sat down with Dan to talk about his recovery journey and relationship with The Council.

Dan Cartwright with Lauren Anderson at The Council's 2022 Fall Luncheon.
Dan Cartwright with keynote speaker Lauren Anderson at The Council’s 2022 Fall Luncheon.

Tell us how you first got involved with The Council.

After I first went through the steps, my sponsor suggested that I get involved on several different levels in recovery, and that I be of service to the community in some way. I asked around, and several people mentioned The Council. I went over there, sat and talked with the director, and I liked what they were doing.

What about our work initially drew you in?

The director shared their vision on how they wanted to grow The Council and reach not hundreds, but thousands of people. At that time, there weren’t a lot of organizations in the community doing what The Council was doing. I’m one of those people who likes challenges, so to be of service at a very grassroots level and to help expand The Council’s work resonated with me.

What do you think the biggest change in the landscape of addiction treatment has been since you’ve been involved with The Council?

There have been more and more opportunities for The Council to be of service, for instance, getting involved in the court system. And to have these other programs, like for ladies that are pregnant and want to get sober, I think is just an amazing development. Thirty years ago, there was no such thing. There’s also been a considerable reduction in the stigma associated with addiction. There is hardly a family that isn’t affected in one way or another by addiction, depression, and other disorders.

What message you would share with people who are actively affected by addiction currently?

I always ask people three questions: Do you think you have a drinking problem? Are you ready to do something about it? And if they say yes to that, I say, are you ready to do something about it right now? If so, let’s get you to a treatment center. Our best thinking got us here, so your thinking’s just not working anymore, and there is a better way.

Is there anything else you want to share with us about your time in recovery and with The Council?

The old saying is, “To keep it, you’ve got to give it away.” I’ve given it away through The Council and other recovery efforts, and I get back tenfold. It is a spiritual journey, and it’s hard to explain that. It makes people recoil sometimes when you talk about God, but it’s God of their making. It’s not necessarily a religious explanation. And if a person is defeated by alcohol, there is a better way.

Help us honor and celebrate Dan’s lifetime of service by reserving your spot at The Council’s 2023 Fall Luncheon with Craig Ferguson.