Tips for Living in Recovery and Avoiding Relapse During the Holiday Season
There’s a reason addiction recovery groups refer to the end-of-the-year holidays as the “Big Three” and it’s not because it’s the most wonderful time of the year.
It’s because Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s pose the biggest relapse threats for individuals in recovery. Think about it: all the alcohol; the emotions of family dynamics; the pressures that come with socializing, spending, travel, and being available for friends, family and co-workers – all of that can increase stress and trigger a relapse for those working through substance abuse disorder and co-occurring mental health.
But living in recovery shouldn’t spell holiday dread. By recognizing the risks and avoiding the minefields, the Big Three can be the happiest season of all.
Here are some of the ways to protect sobriety and prevent relapses:
Respect your recovery routine: The holidays are hectic but try your best to maintain your schedule: regular workouts, meditation and self-care; keeping your 12-step meeting schedule and maintaining contact with your sponsor, therapist or recovery community.
Make wise choices: Keep yourself out temptation’s way and avoid vulnerable situations. While the best way to manage triggers is to avoid them altogether, you may want to attend social gatherings during the holidays. Just make sure to have a party plan that involves strategies such as having transportation should you feel unsafe and need to leave quickly.
Support others supporting you: In this season of giving, reach out to others who may be vulnerable at this time and offer to be there for them with your time, compassion and positivity. Take advantage of the many opportunities at this time to volunteer, help at shelters, support other recovery programs and community activations. Being good to others is a positive reflection of your own recovery journey.
Create your own safe circles: Your old holiday traditions may have contributed to your addictions, so make some new ones. Find sober events around you or host your own. Get creative with these new holiday activities: baking parties or pot lucks, decorating parties or crafting sessions, holiday hikes, caroling sessions or concerts, or group volunteering at a shelter or soup kitchen. Focusing on gratitude brings your own recovery accomplishments into focus.
Communication is key: Let your family and friends know you might struggle with the holidays. Tell them what you need and expect from them to avoid relapse; they’ll be more than happy to support you. Together as a team you’ll enjoy the holiday much more and work through any stress and temptation.
Joy to yourself: Tis the season to be good to yourself. Indulge in the positive benefits of self-care through proper nutrition and exercise, maintaining your spirituality, and giving yourself time for reflection and connection. Your dedication to your sobriety is the biggest gift you can give yourself.
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