Every year, Preakness brings energy, excitement, and tradition to the heart of Baltimore.
From the races to the music and social gatherings, it’s a weekend where the city truly comes alive. But amid the fun, it’s also a time when drinking and gambling are widely celebrated — and for some, that can present real challenges.
At Hygea, we believe in honoring our city’s traditions while also creating space to talk openly about mental health, addiction, and recovery — especially during high-energy events like Preakness.
The Culture of Celebration — and the Fine Line It Walks
Events like Preakness are meant to be fun, and for most, they are. But it’s also true that the atmosphere of heavy drinking, high-stakes betting, and partying can be overwhelming — particularly for those in recovery, or those beginning to question their relationship with substances or gambling.
It’s not about avoiding the event — it’s about approaching it with awareness.
Many of us have been taught to associate celebration with alcohol or risky behavior. But we’re starting to learn that real enjoyment doesn’t have to come at the cost of our wellbeing.
When Tradition Meets Triggers
For individuals in early recovery or those struggling with substance use or gambling habits, weekends like Preakness can bring up feelings of pressure, temptation, or even isolation. Social norms make it easy to dismiss binge drinking or excessive betting as “just part of the fun,” but for some, it’s a deeper battle.
Being aware of these triggers — and having a plan — can make a huge difference.
Tips for navigating Preakness weekend in a healthy way:
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Set clear boundaries with yourself and others
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Bring a sober friend or support person if attending events
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Plan non-drinking social activities around the races
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Know your limits and trust your gut
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Reach out for support if you need it — before, during, or after
Gambling and Alcohol Use: What to Watch For
Did you know that alcohol use disorder and gambling addiction often go hand-in-hand? Both activate similar reward systems in the brain and can become compulsive over time. And both are common around events like Preakness, where the lines between entertainment and excess can blur.
Some signs that a celebration might be turning into a concern include:
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Drinking or betting more than you planned
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Hiding your behavior or feeling shame afterward
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Using substances or gambling as a way to escape
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Feeling like you can’t stop even if you want to
If any of these resonate, know that you’re not alone — and that change is possible.
Hygea’s Commitment to Baltimore
Hygea was built with one mission: to provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment to those facing addiction and mental health challenges right here in Maryland. We know Baltimore. We know its spirit. And we know what it means to support someone through the highs and lows — without judgment, gimmicks, or shortcuts.
Whether you’re seeking help for yourself, a loved one, or just want to learn more, we’re here. And we’ll be here long after the stands clear and the races end.
Contact us to learn more about our rehab programs
You deserve more than just one exciting weekend — you deserve a fulfilling life you don’t need to escape from.
This Preakness, let’s celebrate with purpose, mindfulness, and compassion for those walking their own path to healing.
