When https://ecosoberhouse.com/ it comes to staying sober during the holidays, one of the key challenges is navigating the many triggers and temptations that can arise. In this section, we will explore how to effectively deal with these triggers, providing you with practical strategies to recognize, cope with, and avoid high-risk situations. Additionally, we’ll highlight the importance of reaching out for support when you need it most. So, let’s dive in and learn how to conquer those triggers and temptations during this festive season. Maybe you are worried about your own drug use, or maybe you’re worried about the drug use of someone else. Either way, most addiction recovery agencies, treatment centers, and domestic violence resources increase efforts during the holidays.
Seek extra support when you experience extra stress
It may not be easy to decline the offer, but it may be preferable to navigating a series of landmine. Gauge the potential carefully beforehand and make the best decision sober holidays for you. Or host your own get together and design it around your own wants and needs.
- Or simply turn on music at home and dance around, let yourself go to shake it off.
- Every late-November through December we are encouraged—sometimes even pressured, directly and indirectly—to celebrate the holidays that mark each year’s conclusion.
- Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Al-Anon, and other 12-step recovery groups put extra meetings into place either in person or over the phone during the holidays.
- Moreover, reinforcing limits allows your family and friends to offer the type of support you need in your recovery journey.
Tips for 12 Days to Stay on the Recovery Track during the Holidays
Everybody can get a little sad and shaky around the holidays. Although the holidays are supposed to be cheerful, they present a lot of stress. How can you refrain from using alcohol or other substances and get through this time unscathed? Try these 12 tactics for staying in recovery during the 12 days of Christmas. Look to the people you trust who will stand by your recovery program. If you know the holiday is going to be difficult, attend a meeting the night before.
Family and Children’s Programs
As with depression, anxiety is linked to addiction, making feelings of anxiety triggering for many people in recovery. For people with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders, such as addiction and depression, drinking or drug use may have been a way to self-medicate. 12-step programs create an environment that promotes emotional safety, where people have the experience of feeling understood and accepted. Although these tips can be helpful, family can sometimes be the biggest challenge when staying sober during the holidays.
- Does three hours with your mother leave you craving a drink?
- For many people, including those in recovery, the holidays stir up difficult memories.
- Morgan is freelance mental health and creative writer who regularly contributes to publications including, Psychology Today.
- The best way to get through a sober holiday season, or any other holiday, is to take time to look after your own needs.
- For people with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders, such as addiction and depression, drinking or drug use may have been a way to self-medicate.
Develop a support network
If you’ve had a slip, or have relapsed over the holidays, be kind to yourself. Relapse among people with substance use disorder is not uncommon. Early signs of a relapse or slip may be identified by family members, friends, or other loved ones, such as a spouse. Before your holiday schedule becomes packed with parties, get-togethers, family dinners, and more, commit to getting regular sleep. Many people have activities or interests that help keep them balanced. During times of stress, it can be helpful to embrace them.