Five Practices for Staying Sober During the Holidays

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Lastly, many people face increased loneliness during the holidays despite the festive atmosphere. People in recovery may be more at risk if they are estranged from their families or lack a support system. The resulting stress may lead you back to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as alcohol or drug consumption.

• You may deal with expectations of holiday perfection and demands on time and energy.
• And guess what – none of those involved a drop of alcohol!
• Feelings of loneliness can be triggering for people in recovery, even if they have a solid social support system.

Identify And Avoid Personal Triggers

To find another treatment program, browse the top-rated addiction treatment facilities in each state by visiting our homepage, or by viewing the SAMHSA Treatment Services Locator. Turn off the TV, turn down the lights, read a book, or drink a cup of calming noncaffeinated tea. All these things can be part https://ecosoberhouse.com/ of a healthy bedtime routine. Many people have activities or interests that help keep them balanced. During times of stress, it can be helpful to embrace them. Ignoring triggers leaves you more susceptible to their influence in recovery, and allows them to maintain power over you.

How to Identify a Drug Overdose

Learn to start new holiday traditions, rather than falling back on old habits. Keep in mind that the holidays can be stressful for anyone.7 Family events sometimes involve arguments, intrusive questions, or social pressure. You may need to distance yourself from these events to protect your sobriety. Prioritize your wellbeing and make up an tips to stay sober excuse for your absences.

Trying to Stay Sober This Holiday Season? We’ve Got You Covered

A supportive family can make the difference between recovery and relapse. Family members need to get involved in their own recovery from codependency. Then, you and your loved ones can work together as a team to recover together and avoid holiday relapse.

Develop a support network

What’s most important in the event of a relapse is how you respond to it. There are plenty of sober holiday traditions that you and your loved ones can create together to strengthen your recovery. Instead of dreading the onset of a holiday, spend the time planning, thinking through possible outcomes, and what to do in response. It is also a fun night for many adults, who may celebrate by throwing a party that involves drinking alcohol or using drugs. However, not everyone who experiences sadness or depression has a mental health condition, and these feelings can act as a trigger. If those thoughts begin to creep in—those rationalizations about your eminent capability to now handle your liquor—shut them down immediately.

Proper nutrition, gentle exercise and restorative sleep can do wonders for your well-being. The better you feel physically, the stronger you will be emotionally. Nourish your spirit, too, through personal reflection and connection with those you love. Find some quiet time each day for relaxation and meditation—if only for a few minutes, no matter how busy you are. If you’re going on vacation, prepare your itinerary in advance. Make a plan to visit local museums or sign up for outdoor activities.

Develop A Bedtime Routine

The demands of the season can put a strain on your wallet. From groceries for entertaining to gifts for family and friends. Whether it’s frying up latkes for Hanukkah, or crafting Christmas ornaments around the fireplace, there are many holiday traditions that don’t require a buzz. Consider playing board games, watching holiday movies, or taking a stroll to gaze at the beautiful lights. Other tried and true stress busters are taking a walk in nature, journaling, or sharing your feelings with a loved one. Remember, you have every right to decline these invitations or just stay for a short while.