12/22/2025
Substance Use and the Holidays
Coping with holiday stress can feel like a minefield when you're trying to stay sober. Between work, family pressure and parties seemingly focused on alcohol and other substances, it's easy to feel like you're the only one struggling. But you're not. And you don't have to go through it alone.
Whether newly sober or just starting to question your relationship with alcohol or drugs, the following strategies have assisted many individuals on their recovery journey stay grounded, supported and strong.
Plan Ahead to Protect Your Recovery
Before deciding if a party or event is right for you, find out if you can bring a friend. If you decide to attend but things get uncomfortable, what would your exit strategy be? Is there a mutual support meeting you could attend nearby? With whom could you share your plan to help ensure you've covered all your bases?
Manage Holiday Triggers and Expectations
You don't need to prove anything to anyone. If you know a certain person or event will push your limits, skip it. Maintaining your boundaries to protecting your sobriety is more important than pleasing others. Walking away or declining an invite is a strength, not a weakness.
Take a moment to talk it out with trusted friend. Challenge the story in your head that says you're supposed to feel a certain way. Acknowledge that you're allowed to feel exactly how you feel and set honest holiday expectations without judgement.
Build a Supportive Network
The holidays tend to focus heavily on the importance of family connection. But not everyone has a healthy family dynamic. That doesn't mean your opportunity for support during the holidays is lost. Create your own network through mutual support meetings (online or in-person), message a sober friend, attend festivities at a recovery support center, or be around individuals who support you.
Prioritize Self-Care in Recovery and Ask for Help
Sleep. Eat well. Move your body. Take breaks. Connect with your support system. In recovery, these aren't luxuries, they're survival tools. Recovery isn't about perfection. It's about progress, honesty and support. If you're feeling isolated, overwhelmed or tempted to use, reach out. Call your sponsor or a trusted friend, go to a mutual support meeting.
If you or someone you care about needs support during the holiday season or at any time, there are resources available around the clock to assist.
For information regarding substance use or mental health services: FindHelpNowKY.org
For information regarding how to obtain naloxone: FindNaloxoneNowKY.org
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