Drug abuse, Recovery, and the Holidays
Recovering from drug or alcohol abuse is difficult regardless of what time of the year it is. However, the holiday season poses extra challenges for most people in recovery. There is high stress often associated with preparing for parties and social gatherings, family gatherings, buying gifts, and with being busier overall than the rest of the year. Holidays are often an emotional time for people. When addicts are emotional, there is extra risk involved and they must be careful not to fall victim to relapse when stress and emotions occur. Thus, holiday times can present special challenges even for addicts in long-term recovery. It’s important to recognize and be aware of this extra stress and understand the risks associated with it in regards to recovery.
“Struggles during the holidays involving an active or recovering addict usually stem from one of two places. If the addict is active, there will likely be quite a lot of energy and subsequent stress due to hiding their substance abuse habit from their friends and family. Family gatherings can also highlight and intensify many of the underlying issues that prompted the substance abuse in the first place. The other likely scenario involves the former addict and the average family’s aversion to acknowledge their recovery. Many people are uncomfortable discussing substance abuse and what can happen to someone who is addicted and it’s much easier to just pretend like nothing’s happened at all. This can be troubling to the recovering addict who in this scenario is not getting the support they need during these trying times.” (womensdrugrehab.com)
So, what are some key points for continuing to recover from substance/alcohol abuse during the holidays? First, preparation is key. Be aware that the holidays are stressful and accept it. Watch for potential triggers and have strategies in place to help. Have a plan – never try to “wing it”. Your sobriety is far too valuable. Have exit strategies in place if things become too difficult. Holiday parties are often places where substance abuse is rampant. Womensdrugrehab.com suggests that you “Tell the hosts upon your arrival that you will only be able to stay for a short time. Have a non-alcoholic beverage in your hand at all times so no one tries to force one on you. Do your best to surround yourself with sober support during the holidays as well as there is strength in numbers and you won’t feel like the only person in attendance not engaging in substance abuse. Practice role-playing with your sober support before you enter a high risk situation to prepare yourself for uncomfortable interactions with loved ones and strangers you may face.”
Below are 5 quick tips to staying in recovery from drug/alcohol abuse during the holidays:
- Be selective: If you know a certain party will have alcohol, skip it if it would make you feel more comfortable. If you really have to attend a party that may trigger a relapse, request a friend to keep an eye out for you. Be sure to bring a non-alcoholic drink so that you have a reasonable option.
- Recovery is still your priority: Don’t get so caught up in the business and festivities of the season that you forget the simple steps to recovery. Lean on your support systems and use them to maintain sobriety.
- Stay in treatment: if you are in treatment, stick with it. Continue your therapy or 12 step programs. Don’t put recovery on the backseat and let the holidays consume you or else they will!!
- Remember self-care: Occupying yourself with positive activities can help you take your mind off drugs and alcohol. The holidays are a perfect time to get involved in local charity events. These activities will not only keep you happier, but also boost your self-esteem and keep you focused on positive activities – the perfect recipe for maintaining sobriety.
- Avoid relapse triggers: Avoid the situations that make you feel like you want to use drugs or alcohol. If seeing certain people makes you unbearably sad causes you to get angry, it’s probably best to limit or avoid your interaction with them. Be aware of the people and situations that are triggers and have plans in place if you do come across them.
Even after seeking help and working in active recovery, many people with substance abuse issues have difficulties adjusting to life without the crutches of drugs and alcohol. Then factor in the holidays – which can be an especially challenging time for people in recovery. The stress and chaos associated with the holidays can increase the risk of relapse for individuals in recovery. However, the holidays are also a great time to focus on the positive things that the process of recovery has brought into your life and the blessings you can appreciate as a result.