We all have the innate need hallitseva sivusto to feel loved-especially on an intimate level. Being in a relationship with a significant other brings deep feelings of love, comfort, and security and can be a part of the healing process of recovery.
However, dating and seeking romantic connections during early recovery can be risky. When it comes to sober dating and relationships in recovery, the saying “look before you leap” takes on added meaning.
In this article, we take a look at the realities of sober dating: what it’s like to have sober love and date sober individuals, the do’s and dont’s of dating sober, how to safely date while sober, and the different sober dating apps that you may want to try if you’re looking for clean and sober love.
Do keep in mind that no definite rules govern how dating should go between a non-sober person and a sober person. Each and every relationship has its own unique dynamic.
What is Sober Dating
Simply speaking, sober dating is dating without alcohol or drugs. If you’re recovering from substance abuse and addiction or simply choosing to live a sober lifestyle, this can be a great way to build meaningful connections with people who share the same lifestyle.
More and more people are jumping on the sober curious bandwagon as Dry January and sober love and sex become more trendy.
And for a good reason too. Dry dating helps you avoid situations that can trigger a relapse. It also allows you to focus on building strong, healthy connections with others without falling back on «liquid courage» or other drugs.
While it can be challenging to go out without the presence of alcohol or other substances, many people find that it’s ultimately rewarding and fulfilling.
So if you’re looking for a way to meet like-minded people who share your values and interests, this might be an avenue worth exploring!
Benefits of Dating Sober
Staying clean and sober while getting to know someone new can be advantageous. Here are some benefits of sober dating:
Increased self-awareness. Sober dating can offer an opportunity to increase self-awareness and reflect on your own values, needs, and goals in a relationship. This can help you make more conscious and intentional choices in your dating life. Research also suggests that Temporary Sobriety Initiatives (TSIs) like Dry January and dry dating can help you better understand how drinking affects you.
Building stronger connections. When you’re dating someone who is also in recovery or supportive of your sobriety, you can build stronger connections and a deeper sense of understanding with one another. This can lead to more fulfilling and long-lasting connections.
Greater emotional intimacy. Sobriety requires emotional vulnerability and openness that can translate to greater emotional intimacy. When both partners are lucid and supportive of each other’s sobriety, you can create a space for deeper emotional connection.
Exploring new activities. Sober dating can also offer an opportunity to explore new activities and hobbies that don’t involve alcohol or drugs. This can open up a new world of experiences and shared interests, allowing you to create new memories together through sober-friendly events.
Increased confidence. Dating without imbibing can help you build confidence in navigating social situations without relying on substances. It can also give you a sense of pride in your sobriety and your ability to maintain rehab while pursuing a new romance or friendship.
If you’re curious if it’s possible to go out with people who don’t drink, we’re here to tell you that it is doable and can even be quite exciting and rewarding. However, much like any relationship, it can also be quite challenging sometimes.