BPD, Addiction & Coping Skills for Festivals
Festival season is here...and I'm here for it!
I used to love festivals back in the day, especially the smaller ones (Workhouse was a favourite), though Glastonbury 2005 definitely deserves a shoutout. But as much as I thought I loved them, festivals were always challenging for me under the surface.
Back then, I was using drink (and the rest!) to cope. It might’ve looked like I was having fun, but underneath I was usually spiralling: too drunk, too emotional, too overstimulated, or falling out with my mates. What should have been good memories were often ruined.
For the past few years, my life’s been too chaotic to even think about going to festivals (read my story here). But now I’m rebuilding, and I’ve been diligently paying off my instalments for Tramlines 2025. I’m nervous, yes… but this time, I’m also prepared.
Why Festivals Hit Hard when You've Got BPD
For people like me, festivals aren’t just fun, they’re intense. While others might be able to just let go and enjoy the moment, I’m juggling a heap of emotions and preparing for all the things that might go wrong.
Overstimulation and Sensory Overload
Large crowds, loud music, and bright lights can be overwhelming. That kind of sensory chaos can trigger anxiety, panic, or even dissociation — which is genuinely scary and can lead me into dangerous situations if I’m not careful.
Fear of Abandonment
The potential for getting separated from friends is real- and scary. My brain can spiral quickly into “they’ve left me” mode.
Emotional Dysregulation
Festivals are high-energy and emotionally intense. Even when it’s all fun, for someone with BPD, those emotions can build up and become too much- leading to lashing out or impulsive behaviour… which brings me right back to abandonment fears.
Relationship Triggers
Interacting with people brings its own challenges. It’s a local festival and I’ve got a colourful past- what if I run into people I don’t want to see?
Substance and Alcohol Triggers
My whole life I associated festivals with getting drunk or high. And I’ll be surrounded by people doing just that. But I’ve worked too hard on my recovery to blow it now.
So why am I still going? Because this time I’m prepared.
Writing this has made me nervous, to be honest. It’s a reminder of all the ways things could go wrong. But that would be hiding — and I’ve done enough of that. This time will be different.
I’m armed with knowledge about BPD, addiction, and most importantly — myself. I have a plan.
My Festival Coping Plan
- Plan ahead: I’ve got the map, a list of the bands I want to see (PULP — OMG!!!), and an Access ticket so I can go to quiet areas if things get too much. I’m finally in a place where I can recognise when I need that.
- Stay connected: I was originally going alone, but now I know a couple of people going too. I’ll stay in touch with them -but I’m also reminding myself that it’s okay to enjoy time alone, and okay for others to do the same.
- Self-soothing Kit: I’m taking my favourite hoodie, stress ball, lavender oil, Rescue Remedy, and noise-cancelling headphones for when I need to calm myself.
- Self-care: I eat really well now, and I can take my own food in. I’ll pace myself, drink water, and make sure I get enough sleep. If I need to leave early, I’m not missing out — and it’s not a personal failure.
- Creative outlets: There’s a craft tent and other chill spaces, so I can take breaks away from the high-intensity music areas.
- Emotional Regulation: I’ve learned tools like box breathing, and I’ll remind myself: feelings aren’t facts. They pass.
- Crisis Plan: I know where to go and who to contact if I start spiralling. I’m not going in blind.
It’s Still Possible to Enjoy It- Just Differently
I’m staying sober. I don’t need to numb anything anymore.
I still want to dance, laugh, and feel connected, but I’m doing it on my terms, with self-respect, awareness, and care.
It might look quieter from the outside. But inside? I’m proud.
Because this time, I’m doing it my way.
Final Words: You’re Not Weak for Protecting Your Peace
You’re not boring because you want calm.
You’re not dramatic because crowds stress you out.
You’re not broken because you’ve got a plan.
You’re strong for doing things differently.
Whether you’re going, staying home, or doing a bit of both- honour what you need.
What are your tips for managing your mental health and wellbeing at festivals? Let me know what’s in your festival survival kit below!
