The Challenges Of Recovery During The Holidays

This holiday season will be unlike any other. In a time in which we are encouraged to continue to socially distance ourselves, the holiday season brings about a mixed bag of emotions.

For people in recovery, this time of year is spent trying to the navigate the stress and anxiety that naturally comes around. However, it also brings about opportunities to put in place a list of coping skills (resiliency, boundaries, & accountability). Here are some common obstacles that one may face during the holiday period.

Guilt & Shame

Many of us may experience some guilt or shame when thinking about previous times in which we were unable to attend a family gathering. Perhaps it was due to being drunk or high, or not remembering what happened. For some, the holidays may be a period in which we are reminded of past mistakes when it comes to our interactions with family or friends.

Increased substances related activities

The increase in family or social gatherings may bring about an increase in alcohol or drug related activities. Some may find it difficult to see their family drinking a bottle of wine, while others may feel lost within the gathering due to being the only person who is sober. Family gatherings may also bring about unhealthy social dynamics which may trigger certain emotions such as resentment, anger or conflict which can put those at early stages of recovery and an increase risk of relapse.

Financial Stressors

Trying to figure out what to get everyone, while also respecting your own limits? For some, the increased pressure during this time of year can feel very overwhelming. Trying to find that special gift for those we care about, while also managing our own needs can be difficult.

Isolation & Lack of Social Support

Isolation is one of the most common risk factors of any potential relapse. During the holiday season, we may feel cut off from society, and not very eager to reach out to loved ones. For others, previous mistakes or a lack of contact with family and friends may continue at a time in which we may need it the most.

Disruption in Routine

It is no secret that the holidays bring about a disruption in our every day schedule and routine. Rather than waking up for work, we may decide to sleep in a little longer. Rather than interacting with a few people we may be exposed to multiple gatherings (video chats these days!). Not eating or sleeping properly. Regardless of our unique situation, some of us may fall victim to a rapid change in personal routine.

Protecting Your Recovery During The Holiday

Create alternative exits

Come prepared. In order to safety navigate the many obstacles that you may face during the holidays you will need to have multiple strategies that you can use. From being tempted to consume alcohol and/or drugs, to having a disagreement with a family member, having alternative options for each situation can be useful. Have a friend or sponsor on speed dial, excuse yourself from the room to regain your composure, or simply leave your environment.

Bring your own drinks

For some, bringing their own drink allows for a sense of calmness and control. Rather than needing to decline and debate why you aren’t having a drink amongst friends, take control of your situation by bringing your own drink (non-alcoholic beverage).

Practice Self-Care

Taking some time to oneself makes all the difference. Rather than trying to squeeze in that coffee meeting with your friend in an already busy schedule, make some time for yourself. Practicing self-care such as meditation, reading a good book or engaging in some physical activity can help nourish your mental and emotional health.

Avoid unnecessary risks

If you know that drinking or drugging will be heavily present, or that a relative will question you about the last treatment center you went to, don’t expose yourself to unnecessary risks. You will need to be aware of your different levels of vulnerability to people, places and things. Remember your sobriety is your top priority. The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.