Parenting
Health and Wellness
January 17, 2023
Parenting is one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences in life. Although there is not a complete guidebook as to how to raise a child, many parents are learning as they go.
As sober curiosity gains popularity, an increasing number of parents are acknowledging the impact of alcohol on their children and embracing a life without it. The benefits of sober parenting include but are not limited to a healthy lifestyle, positive role modeling, and stronger family relationships.
The word "sober" carries a stigma that can make us feel uncomfortable and assume that a life of addiction is associated with it. But that couldn't be further from the truth. By definition sober is “not affected by alcohol; not drunk” which is a pretty loose term. Now we take it a step further into sober curiosity which means, to question the reasons behind why you drink, both personal and societal, rather than mindlessly sipping.
The rise of sober parenting is part of a broader cultural shift towards a healthier, more mindful lifestyle. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the dangers of alcohol and the impact it can have on individuals and society. As a result, more parents are choosing to abstain from alcohol consumption, both for themselves and for the benefit of their children.
When you become a parent, your wants and needs tend to come last. It’s important to make our health a priority because if you can’t help yourself, you can help anyone else. One of the main factors in choosing sobriety is the health benefits that come with it. The most obvious health benefit is improved liver function.
Reducing or eliminating alcohol intake can dramatically impact the risk of liver disease and improve liver function. Another factor to consider in regard to health is your mental health. Studies have shown that alcohol can act as a stimulant and exacerbate disorders such as anxiety and depression. Increase your mental clarity and overall well-being when you eliminate alcohol.
When you look good, you feel good! You’ll notice very quickly how much your skin improves and find yourself glowing when you stop drinking alcohol. Spirits are known to dehydrate and contribute to premature aging.
Long are the days we hear, “Do as I say, not as I do” as a parenting tactic. Children become a factor of their environment learning from parents' behaviors and patterns. Living a sober lifestyle means modeling healthy behaviors especially when it comes to a relationship with alcohol. As a parent, this may entail being mindful of certain family patterns that have persisted for generations prior to your own. And then breaking that pattern as your family continues to grow.
Having these conversations with your children is crucial when choosing a sober lifestyle. Not only does this promote open communication but it invites the idea of an open dialogue about issues that do exist in the real world. At the same time, the parent is able to walk through certain social occasions where alcohol may be presented and how to navigate through that. This creates a safe boundary and builds a deeper connection between parent and child.
Nothing worth keeping comes easy and sobriety is no exception to that rule. Choosing to live a sober lifestyle while raising children can present many challenges for parents. For example, many parents resort to alcohol when the stress of managing their household, raising children, and balancing their careers becomes too much. The spirit often helps take the edge off but it also could be a pattern your child is picking up on. Finding other solutions to managing stress is important to keep in mind when choosing a sober parenting lifestyle.
Social situations can also be challenging to navigate when those around you are drinking. It’s tough to explain your reasons behind sobriety without putting others down. You might even find yourself leaving social events earlier rather than lingering around drinking with friends and family.
Let’s face it, as parents we want to protect our children from all the evil that exists in the real world. It’s also our responsibility to prepare them to face the harsh reality we live in. That starts with making better choices in our own homes and being more mindful of our relationship with alcohol. It’s not to say one should cut it out completely, but the idea of sober curiosity is to question whether alcohol is enriching or negatively impacting your life.
Author bio: Miriah Macias is a dedicated mother and wife who writes inspiring stories for Addiction Treatment Magazine. Her compassionate approach and commitment to healing make her a valuable resource for those navigating the complexities of parenthood and addiction.
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