Is Social Media Bad for Sobriety?

MAYBE –

Feb. 10, 2021 – Pro Tip: If you’re on social media and see things that trigger you, you should try to counter that with enjoyable things to ruminate on in positive ways. Some people think of a memory, others think of scenes in nature, religious people might think of scripture. Select something that centers you and makes you feel pleasure or joy. Have two or three of those things in mind in advance to replace triggers on social media. Think of it as putting away the file you have on social media and retrieving a new file.

Reframe Sobriety It’s also helpful to remember that social media is a highlight reel of the best times. People put forth their good news, vacation shots, and celebrations. Ultimately, if seeing other people drinking makes you feel like they’re having more fun than you, it might be time for a reality check, says Sabrina Spotorno, a therapist at Monument, an online treatment platform for those looking to change their relationship with alcohol. Spotorno facilitates a virtual, therapist-moderated support group called Managing Your Drinking Through Quarantine.

She suggests asking yourself, “Is this what constitutes fun for me?” You might recognize that you are actually experiencing “the joy of missing out” (being content with where you are) and that can help you appreciate that you don’t have to be in an environment with alcohol or think about it all the time—whether in real life or online.