Summer and Addiction: Finding Balance Beyond the Bottle

By Rose Degenhardt, MA, RCT, CCC

Founder of Venture Counselling & Therapy Inc.

Summer in Nova Scotia is a time for longer days, sunny beaches, social gatherings, and of

course, camping and barbecues. It’s also a time when social drinking and substance use often spike—and with good reason. Alcohol is often seen as a natural companion to relaxation, especially at events that celebrate the joys of summer: from family get-togethers to backyard parties to those spontaneous moments of camping fun. But for those of us living with addiction—or those who are in recovery—the pressure can be intense.

The normalization of drinking during social events in the summer can often blur the lines

between enjoying a cold drink and using alcohol to cope. As an addiction therapist, I’ve seen

first-hand how summer can amplify these challenges, but I also know that there are healthier

ways to relax, unwind, and have fun without substances.

My Story: What Summer Looked Like for Me Growing Up

I didn’t always understand the patterns of addiction—but I felt them.

Growing up with a parent who struggled with substance use, summer became a season of anxiety for me. The warmer it got, the more the bottles clinked. The parties got louder, the fights more frequent, and the days less predictable. I can still remember the sound of laughter that turned to chaos as the sun went down.

As a child, I knew that while other families packed up for the lake or roasted marshmallows at

campgrounds, I had to stay alert. Summer wasn’t always relaxing—it was destabilizing. I

watched substance use shape not just our family life, but my sense of safety and belonging.

It left an imprint. And it deeply informs the work I do now with families, teens, and individuals

navigating addiction—because I know that addiction doesn’t just affect one person. It ripples through generations. But so can healing.

Addiction in Nova Scotia: A Summer Spike

Did you know that addiction rates in Nova Scotia tend to rise during the summer months?

According to the Nova Scotia Health Authority, there is an observable spike in alcohol-related admissions to hospitals and addiction treatment programs in late spring and summer. A big part of this is due to increased social gatherings, holidays, and the cultural association between alcohol and relaxation.

• 56% of Nova Scotians report drinking alcohol regularly, with the summer months seeing

an uptick in consumption, particularly among those who have underlying stress or are in

recovery.

• Substance use in Nova Scotia contributes significantly to mental health struggles,

particularly for individuals who face co-occurring disorders (mental health conditions

alongside addiction).

As social creatures, we often rely on these shared moments of celebration and connection to

unwind—but sometimes that same social pressure can make it difficult to find balance when it comes to substances.  Drinking is normalized in many settings, but for people in recovery or who are sensitive to substances, that can be a difficult cycle to break.

Social Pressure & Substance Use

Summer’s carefree vibe can make it seem like everyone is having a drink or two—whether it’s a glass of wine on the patio, a beer by the lake, or a cocktail at a party. But what happens when those moments are no longer “just social”? What happens when you’re using substances not to unwind but as a way to escape or manage emotions?

There’s often pressure to conform to social norms, which include the idea that fun equals

drinking. If you’ve been to a party lately, you’ve probably noticed that mocktails and non-

alcoholic beverages don’t always get the spotlight they deserve. This is part of what

makes addiction recovery particularly challenging: it’s not just about saying “no” to substances, but also about reshaping your social landscape and finding new ways to enjoy life.

Relaxing Without Substances: Embracing a Different Kind of Summer

You can still have a blast in the summer without turning to substances for relaxation. Here are a few ideas that go beyond the bottle:

1. Mindful Outdoor Activities

Whether it’s hiking, biking, swimming, or just lying on the grass with a good book—taking time to connect with nature can offer mental clarity and emotional balance. It’s about rediscovering the joy of being present in the moment.

2. Creative Hobbies

Summer is the perfect time to take up a new creative hobby. Try your hand at painting,

photography, cooking, or gardening. These activities not only keep you engaged, but they also provide a sense of accomplishment that goes beyond substance use.

3. Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones

If socializing feels overwhelming, consider gathering with a small, supportive group of people

who understand your journey. Spending time in places where you feel safe and loved can help reduce the need for substances.

4. Engage in Restorative Practices

Try practicing yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises. These activities can help release tension, improve mental health, and enhance emotional well-being.

A Fun Mocktail Recipe: The Venture Spritz

Now for the fun part—let’s talk about how you can still enjoy a delicious, refreshing drink

without alcohol. Try this Venture Spritz at your next gathering, a mocktail that’s perfect for

relaxing and having fun without the hangover.

Venture Spritz Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sparkling water (or club soda)

• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice

• 1/4 cup cranberry juice (unsweetened)

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• Ice cubes

• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

• Orange slices for garnish

  
  

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.

2. In a separate shaker or mixing glass, combine sparkling water, fresh orange juice,

cranberry juice, and lime juice. Stir well to mix.

3. Pour the mixture over the ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves and orange slices.

4. Stir gently and enjoy!

This Venture Spritz is both refreshing and energizing—just the kind of drink to help you

embrace the summer vibe without reaching for alcohol.

Remember: You’re Not Alone

Addiction recovery, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, is never a solitary journey.

At Venture Counselling & Therapy Inc., we understand the challenges of navigating both

recovery and social settings. Our team is here to support you as you rediscover healthy ways to relax, connect, and thrive.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance, use or addiction in Nova Scotia, help is available. Start with:

• Nova Scotia Mental Health & Addictions Intake Line: 1-855-922-1122

• AA Atlantic Canada: https://www.area81aa.ca/

• Cocaine Anonymous Halifax: https://www.caatlantic.org/

• Or reach out to us at Venture Counselling for individual or family therapy.

In strength, sobriety, and self-trust,

Rose Degenhardt, MA, RCT, CCC

Owner & Addiction Therapist, Venture Counselling & Therapy Inc.