12/14/2023
A recurring challenge during this season is the heightened prevalence of substance use amidst the holiday hustle. The festivities, coupled with exhaustion and stress, can act as triggers for mental health struggles. Individuals navigating recovery or grappling with active addictions may find the holidays exceptionally challenging, potentially leading to a relapse.
The holiday period may also intensify emotional stress, involving family conflicts, trauma, financial worries, and loneliness. Without effective coping strategies, individuals may revert to unhealthy methods.
1. Limit Triggers: Identify and minimize triggers, whether stress, environments, or specific individuals. Addressing basic needs such as food, sleep, and mood is crucial for trigger management. Recognize warning signs like thinking patterns and seeking unhealthy situations.
2. Set Boundaries: Anticipate potential boundary challenges and rehearse responses. Prepare how to decline substances or respond to questions about recovery.
3. Create a Plan: Plan ahead for gatherings with potential triggers. Consider bringing a supportive person, safe foods/drinks, or an exit strategy for challenging situations.
4. Healthy Self-Care: Engage in new, healthy activities to avoid falling back into old patterns. Make self-care a priority by being intentional about your well-being.
5. Build a Support System: Increase engagement in support group meetings during the holiday season. Building and maintaining healthy relationships is crucial.
6. Marathon Meetings: If part of a 12-step program, explore Marathon meetings or gatherings offered by 12-step clubhouses during the holidays.
7. Try Something New: Break away from addictive behaviors by creating new, meaningful traditions. Frame holidays as opportunities for novel experiences with sober friends.
8. Connect with Sober Contacts: Stay connected with others in sobriety during stressful times. Reaching out for help is an act of vulnerability that benefits both parties.
If the holidays become overwhelming, remember that assistance is just a phone call away.
Give us a call at 781-556-6430