The holiday season is often depicted as a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, for those in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction, it can also be a challenging period with high amounts of triggers, stress, and temptation. In this blog, we’ll explore practical tips and tricks for navigating the holidays while staying committed to your recovery journey.
Plan Ahead for Holiday Events
Preparation is key to managing holiday challenges. Before attending any get togethers or parties, consider the nature of the event. Is it likely to involve alcohol or substances? Decide in advance how long you plan to stay at an event, or if you’ll attend at all. It’s okay to set limits to protect your sobriety. If you feel comfortable, let the host or someone else in attendance know of your recovery.
Create an Exit Strategy
Having a plan for leaving an event if things become overwhelming can be crucial. Drive yourself or book a ride-sharing service to ensure you can leave if needed. Come with a polite, but firm excuse for leaving early if necessary like, “I’m not feeling well” or “I have an early morning tomorrow”.
Surround Yourself with Support
The holidays are a perfect time to lean on your support network. Many recovery meetings add extra meetings or events to provide additional support during this time. On top of meetings, spend time with friends and family who understand and support your recovery. Their presence can help you stay grounded and focused on your goals.
Practice Self-Care and Stress Management
The holiday season can be stressful, and stress can be a significant trigger for relapse. To manage stress, continue your regular self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies that help you relax. Incorporate techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, journaling, or yoga to stay centered and calm.
Avoid Triggers When Possible
Identify and avoid situations or people that might trigger cravings or make you uncomfortable. This might include steering clear of certain places or situations, and being prepared to decline offers of alcohol or other substances.
Focus on Gratitude and Positivity
The holiday season is an opportunity to reflect on what you’re grateful for and to cultivate a positive outlook. To enhance your mood, take time each day to acknowledge and appreciate the positive aspects of your life and all you’ve accomplished in your recovery journey. Recognize and celebrate milestones in your recovery, no matter how small.
Conclusion
Navigating the holidays in recovery is certainly challenging, but with careful planning, a strong support system, and a focus on self-care, it is entirely possible to enjoy the season while maintaining your sobriety. Remember, the holidays are a time to celebrate life and connect with loved ones, and you can do so in a way that honors and supports your commitment to recovery. If you find yourself struggling more than usual during the holidays, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. By staying prepared and mindful, you can embrace the holiday season with a sense of peace and accomplishment, knowing that you are staying true to yourself and your recovery goals.