By: Marie Garceau, Drug Rehab Services
St. Patrick’s Day in 2024 is not celebrated for the same reasons it once was, as times change
and holidays take on different meanings.
While some still see it as a family-centric Catholic celebration or a break from Lent-related
restrictions, the day primarily focuses on parties, rowdy parades, green beer, bar specials, and
heavy drinking.
There are undoubtedly good times had by all who take part, but if you want to stay sober and
avoid alcohol, it can pose a challenge but can be easily managed with practical tips and helpful
information.
For instance, remind yourself why you are sober, and don’t do it alone. You can still have fun
and celebrate, but do it with other sober people. Everyone has their reasons for stopping
drinking; remind yourself of those reasons and hold yourself accountable.
Know your triggers; it doesn’t matter if you are a recovering addict or have removed alcohol
from your life. Be cautious around possible triggers that pose a challenge. Most people in this
situation choose to skip the bar and find something fun to do or go to a sober St. Patrick’s Day
celebration.
Keep a non-alcoholic drink or mocktail in your hand. People will not bother you to ask if you
want a drink if you already have something to sip on, like a mocktail. This also leads to planning
how to say no. You will encounter social pressure if you go to a bar on St. Patrick’s Day. It’s
unavoidable. It’s wise to practice ways to refuse alcohol.
Moreover, it is essential to recognize sobriety's health and social benefits. It significantly
improves your mental and physical health and supports a crucial societal gain.
Being sober on St. Patrick’s Day or any day removes all chances of impaired driving.
Unfortunately, events or days that promote excessive alcohol use could increase the chances of
drunk or drugged driving.
According to Nevada Fatal Crash Data, impaired driving fatalities represent 42% of all vehicle
fatalities in the state. Since 2017, there has been an increase in the number of impaired driving
fatalities. Between 2017 and 2021, there have been 454 impaired driving fatalities in Clark
County, with a significant increase in 2021.
If you are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day sober, take the necessary precautions and look out for
another. If you are choosing to consume alcohol over the St. Paddy’s Day weekend, drink
responsibly, know your limits, and do not drink and drive.
Marie Garceau has been working in the field of substance use and addiction recovery for over a
decade. She works at DRS and primarily focuses on reaching out to the community and
spreading awareness.
