5 Tips for Surviving the Holidays
For many, the holidays are some of the happiest times of the year. It’s a time to catch up with family and friends, But for someone who is recovery from an addiction, the holidays can be filled with challenges and triggers.
Rather than viewing the holidays as a stressful and hectic time, plan to help relieve some of the pressure. Regardless to how long you’ve been in recovery, you need clear boundaries involving people, places and things.
This year, learn how to be proactive during the holidays. Not only will it help with last-minute stress, but it will also give you more time to focus on the things that matter most celebrating the birth of Jesus and memories with loved ones.
Tip #1 Acknowledge the Risk – Many people have difficulties coping during the holiday season. Three of these reasons could be:
Non-Sober Environment – People, music, locations, emotions, advertisements and other festivals may pressure or trigger you in the name of the season.
Stress – Shopping, cooking and seeing relatives during the holidays can be very stressful causing you to neglect your sober lifestyle.
Unrealistic Expectation – Be careful when hoping that this year is going to be different than others, don’t set yourself up for resentments and other emotional triggers.
Tip #2 Have a Plan – prepare for Holiday Activities and know what to do before things go wrong.
Why? Do I really need to go? Am I avoiding something or someone.
Where? Am I ready to handle this type of environment?
Who? Can I bring someone to help me? Will anyone compromise my sobriety?
What? What are possible triggers? What’s my “escape plan” if I feel a craving coming on?
When? How long will I stay? What time will I leave?
Tip #3 Practice Saying No, not just to drugs or alcohol, but to people, places or things that may pressure you into situations you don’t want to be in.
Sample Refusals
I won’t be able to make it – I wish I could make it work – Sounds nice, but no thanks – I’m focusing on other things- I’m supposed to be somewhere else – I’m in a season of No- I’m taking on new things- It’s not a good idea for me – Thanks for the invite, no thank you – I’ve got too much on my plate – I’m not available to set aside the time- I won’t be able to help you – I appreciate you thinking of me but…
Tip #4 Use Your Support System
Whoever is part of your support system, stay connected to them. They understand what you are going through better than friends and family
Do Not – Missed Meetings or sessions. Rely solely on friends and family. Avoid talking about cravings. Do – Go to more meetings and reach out for help.
Tip #5 Find The Holiday Spirit – beyond the traditions of the season and discover the real purpose and joy of the holidays.
Give Thanks – Find gratitude in every moment. Keep a list of your blessings in your pocket to read in tough situations.
Share Love – The season of giving is more than gifts under a tree. Spend time not money with those who encourage, inspire and support you.
Celebrate Beginnings – With each day comes a reason to celebrate your sobriety.