Tips for Staying Drug and Alcohol-Free During the Holidays
The holidays can be a triggering time for those recovering from drug and alcohol abuse. From the stress that goes along with the season to being surrounded by alcohol at holiday events, it is important that you have a toolkit of strategies to ensure that you can maintain your sobriety. Being open with friends and family can go a long way to helping you to avoid drugs and alcoholdrugs and alcohol. You shouldn’t feel pressured to attend parties or get-togethers where alcohol or drugs will be present, as the temptation may simply be too great. Letting your close friends and family know that you are continuing to work on your sobriety will also give you a strong support system to stay on the right track.
Focus on Self-Care Through the Holiday Season
It is important that you give yourself time for self-care to ensure that you can continue to lead a sober life. With the many stresses that go with the holidays, including the financial burden that some may struggle with, you may feel like you need an escape from the pressure. Some may turn to drugs or alcohol as a temporary reprieve. To avoid this, make sure you give yourself time during the holidays to focus on your mental health and your continued sobriety. This may mean some quiet evenings at home with friends, carving time to workout at the gym, or simply spending time meditating or finishing a good book. By allotting this ‘me time’, you can ease some of the pressure associated with the holidays, making it easier to copy with everyday life.
Reach Out for Support to Maintain Your Sobriety During the Holidays
Some recovering addicts find the holiday season to be particularly triggering, with festivities filled with memories of past drug and alcohol abuse. Turning to your support system can help to ensure that you are able to remain drug and alcohol-free through the holidays. For some recovering addicts this may mean going to regular AA or NA meetings, speaking to a therapist or addiction counselor, or leaning on close friends and family for support. Knowing that you have a strong support system when your sobriety is most challenged can go a long way to ensuring that you are able to win the fight over your addiction.
By focusing on your needs, without the guilt of feeling selfish, you can be sure that you will make it through the holidays with your continued sober lifestyle. Friends and family that care most about you will continue to offer their support and understanding, further solidifying these strong relationships. Don’t feel guilty about declining to attend a party where you know drugs or alcohol will be in abundance or for just taking that much-needed me time that will make sure your mind is in a healthy space. When you need it most, reach out to your support system for strength and guidance to keep you sober through the holidays and into the new year.
