The holidays can be a particularly stressful time for someone in recovery from an alcohol or substance use disorder. But by planning ahead and having the right tools and boundaries in place, the holidays can be “the most wonderful time of the year.”
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Celebrate the Good, Avoid the Bad: Saying “no” to experiences that put you at risk will avoid triggers leading to a setback in your recovery. It also gives you more time to celebrate the good things in your life.
- Make it a Priority: Your sobriety is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself and, often, others. Making it a priority for the holidays helps you make the right decisions.
- Treatment is Always Available: If you’re traveling during the holidays and worried you can’t tap into your support network, virtual therapy is here to help. You may also be able to get dosing from providers in other cities, but you should confirm this ahead of time before you travel.
- Start Treatment Now: If you or someone you know is considering treatment for a drug or alcohol use disorder, the holidays can be a good time to get started. In addition to the end of the year typically involving time off, your support system is also around for holiday celebrations and can provide even stronger support.
- Support Someone in Recovery: This article makes it easy for others to support you or someone else in recovery during the holidays.
This guide is designed to help anyone in recovery steer clear of holiday issues that could trigger cravings or even a setback. For example, concerns about money, certain social gatherings, or being in the presence of drugs or alcohol are all situations that may have led to a substance use disorder in the past.
These articles provide ways to deal with these concerns and minimize the stress and uncomfortable emotions they can cause. There are also some articles for anyone considering treatment for the first time or celebrating the holidays with someone in recovery.
- Avoiding Relapses During the Holidays: Check out our tips to safely navigating the holidays.
- Sober Living During the Holidays: You don’t have to give up food, friendships, and happiness during the holidays to stay sober.
- Benefits of Virtual Therapy During the Holidays: Virtual therapy during the holidays ensures you can maintain your sobriety regardless of your travel plans.
- 5 Reasons the Holidays Are the Best Time to Start Treatment: Contrary to popular belief, the holidays can be a good time to start getting treatment for a drug or alcohol use disorder.
- Navigating the Holidays with Someone in Recovery: If a friend or family member in recovery is coming to your holiday event, these tips will help you support them and ensure everyone has a good time.
The holidays can be an emotional time, but by anticipating potential issues and some planning, you can stay sober and make sure they are good emotions for everyone.
REACH OUT TO BRIGHTVIEW FOR ONGOING ADDICTION TREATMENT DURING THE HOLIDAYS
When it comes to the holidays, you can enjoy them and still get the help you need for your substance use disorder. Our team at BrightView is dedicated to working with you through the process 24/7/365. Call us at 888-501-9865 or schedule an appointment using our online form.
Photo by Kira auf der Heide on Unsplash
