ATOD NEWSLETTER
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs (ATOD)
December 2023
Staying Merry and Bright: Navigating Holiday Celebrations Without Alcohol
The holiday season is upon us, and it's a time filled with festive cheer, twinkling lights, and the warmth of spending time with friends and family. While the holidays are a blast, they can also bring some tricky situations, especially when it comes to alcohol. In this blog post, we're going to chat about staying merry and bright without the need for a sip of the bubbly stuff.
Peer Pressure Power Play:
We get it – the pressure to fit in is real. But here's the thing: you're amazing just as you are! If you're not comfortable with drinking, don't let peer pressure convince you otherwise. True friends will respect your choices, and there are plenty of ways to have a blast without relying on alcohol.
Choose Your Crew Wisely: Surround yourself with friends who share your values and don't feel the need to push the boundaries. Being with a group of like-minded individuals makes it easier to have a great time without the influence of alcohol. Plan fun activities, games, or movie nights that don't involve drinking.
Non-Alcoholic Fun: Who said holiday drinks have to contain alcohol? Get creative with your beverages! Try making festive mocktails, hot cocoa, or flavored sparkling water. There are tons of delicious non-alcoholic options that can make your holiday celebrations just as exciting.
Talk it Out: If you're feeling uneasy about an upcoming event, talk to someone you trust – a friend, a family member, or a mentor. Sharing your concerns can help you feel supported, and they might have valuable advice on how to navigate the situation.
Have a Plan: If you find yourself in a situation where alcohol is present, have a game plan. Decide in advance how you'll handle the pressure or temptation. It's totally okay to step away from a situation that makes you uncomfortable and find a friend or family member for support.
Discover Alcohol-Free Events: Check out local events or parties that are specifically alcohol-free. Many communities host sober celebrations that are just as festive and fun. You might be surprised by how many awesome activities are happening around you that don't involve alcohol.
Remember, the holidays are about joy, connection, and creating memories. You don't need alcohol to have an amazing time! Stick to your values, surround yourself with supportive friends, get creative with non-alcoholic beverages, and most importantly, have fun. You're capable of navigating the holiday season without a drop of alcohol, and you'll come out of it with great memories and a sense of pride in staying true to yourself. Cheers to a happy, healthy, and sober holiday season, awesome teens!
Which Holiday Tradition Would You Choose Over Substance Use?
Drinking and DUIs During the Holidays
Before heading to a holiday event, designate a sober driver or arrange for alternative transportation such as a rideshare service. Planning ahead ensures a safe journey home.
To Be Safe this Holiday Season, think of using Lyft or Uber!
1. Safe and Reliable Transportation:
- Safety always comes first, especially during the holiday season when roads can be busier than usual. Uber and Lyft provide a reliable alternative to driving under the influence, ensuring that everyone gets home safely.
2. Avoiding DUIs and Legal Consequences:
- Driving under the influence is not only dangerous but can also lead to severe legal consequences. Using ride-sharing services helps you enjoy the festivities without worrying about the potential legal fallout of impaired driving.
3. Stress-Free Celebrations:
- Enjoy your holiday celebrations to the fullest without the stress of finding parking or navigating through traffic. With Uber and Lyft, you can focus on making memories rather than dealing with the hassles of driving.
4. Cost-Effective Solutions:
- When you factor in the cost of parking, potential fines, and the overall convenience, ride-sharing services often prove to be a cost-effective solution. Plus, it's a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with a safe ride home.
5. Availability During Peak Times:
- The holiday season is notorious for packed social calendars. With Uber and Lyft, you don't have to worry about transportation during peak times. These services are available 24/7, ensuring you can get a ride when you need it most.
6. Designated Drivers Without the Planning:
- No need to designate a sober driver or plan out transportation logistics in advance. With the tap of a button, you can secure a designated driver to get you home safely, allowing everyone to enjoy the festivities.
7. Real-Time Tracking for Loved Ones:
- For added peace of mind, Uber and Lyft provide real-time tracking options. Share your trip with friends or family members so they can monitor your journey and know when you've safely reached your destination.
8. Contributing to Safer Roads:
- By opting for ride-sharing services, you contribute to safer roads for everyone. Choosing not to drive under the influence promotes responsible behavior and helps make the holiday season safer for everyone on the road.
This holiday season, let Uber and Lyft be your trusted sleighs, ensuring that you and your loved ones can celebrate responsibly and get home safely.
How to say no when friends offer you drugs and alcohol?
Mocktail Magic: Sip Your Way to Festive Fun!
The holiday season is upon us, and it's time to celebrate without compromising your commitment to a substance-free lifestyle. Ditch the alcohol and embrace the delicious world of mocktails! Whether you're hosting a party or attending a gathering, these non-alcoholic concoctions are sure to be a hit. Grab your shakers and get ready to shake up some mocktail magic!
1. Sparkling Cranberry Fizz
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup sparkling water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
- Fresh cranberries and mint for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour cranberry juice and sparkling water over the ice.
- Add fresh lime juice and stir gently.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of mint. Cheers to a sparkling celebration!
2. Tropical Paradise Punch
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup coconut cream
- Splash of grenadine
- Pineapple slices and cherries for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a shaker, combine pineapple juice, orange juice, and coconut cream.
- Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice cubes.
- Add a splash of grenadine for a burst of color.
- Garnish with pineapple slices and cherries. Get ready to be transported to a tropical paradise!
3. Minty Watermelon Refresher
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh watermelon chunks
- 1/2 cup cucumber slices
- 5-6 fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine watermelon chunks, cucumber slices, mint leaves, honey, and lime juice.
- Blend until smooth.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and a watermelon wedge. Refreshingly delightful!
4. Berry Blast Mojito
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon agave syrup
- 1/4 cup club soda
- Fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the mixed berries in a glass.
- Add fresh lime juice and agave syrup.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes and top with club soda.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves. A berry delicious mocktail awaits!
Remember, the key to a successful holiday celebration is not the alcohol but the joy of being together. Share these mocktail recipes with friends and family, and let the good times roll without the need for spirits. Cheers to a festive season filled with flavor, fun, and fabulous mocktails!
Need Help Connecting with a Mental Health Provider?
24/7/365 Mental Health Care Coordination Service for Cumberland Regional High School District Students, Staff, and their Families! Click Here for more information!
LOCAL RESOURCES
Acenda Integrated Health
- Phone: 1 (844) 422-3632
- Website: https://acendahealth.org/
- (*Out-patient counseling center in Glassboro, NJ)
It Takes a Family
- Website: https://www.inspirahealthnetwork.org/services-treatments/behavioral-mental-health-services
- (*out-patient counseling centers in Bridgeton and Glassboro, NJ areas)
Center for Family Guidance
- Phone: 856-251-0500
- Website: https://ctrfamilyguidance.com/
- (*Out-patient counseling center located in West Deptford, NJ area)
Want to quit vaping?
NJ Tobacco Quit Options
Cumberland County Counseling Resources
Mr. Sean McGuigan (Student Assistance Coordinator)
Email: mcguigan@crhsd.org
Website: https://www.crhsd.org/domain/48
Phone: 856-451-9400 242
Twitter: @McguiganSean2