This means setting yourself up for success through a lifestyle of optimal health instead of high risk, before the chaos of the season sets in. One of the most important things you can do is to cultivate insight and awareness, because even small, subtle changes to our routine can feel really big. Holiday travel, shopping, family gatherings, and other social commitments can all increase our stress this time of year. And stress, anxiety, isolation, or even depression can become triggers that lead to unhealthy ways of coping. By taking care of yourself, you are better equipped to handle the pressures and challenges of the holiday season without turning to substances.
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What situations could possibly set you on the road toward relapse? Or maybe you’ll investigate online meetings now, before anything happens, so you can go to a meeting at a moment’s notice. Remember, it’s okay to retreat to an earlier Recovery Zone for a few weeks. The holidays are usually a fun, magical time, but for people in recovery, it can feel overwhelming. They may feel loaded with potential triggers and stress due to parties or family gatherings.
Recognize and Accept Cravings
Turn off the TV, turn down the lights, read a book, or drink a cup of calming noncaffeinated tea. Before your holiday schedule becomes packed with parties, https://dobarportal.net/2021/08/11/role-of-house-managers-in-sober-living-homes/ get-togethers, family dinners, and more, commit to getting regular sleep. Many people have activities or interests that help keep them balanced. Ignoring triggers leaves you more susceptible to their influence in recovery, and allows them to maintain power over you. Spend time with people who you feel comfortable around, people who lift you up instead of bringing you down. Remind yourself that you are deserving of this connection — deserving of kindness, love, and happiness.
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Whatever your relationship with alcohol, or your goals, if you feel you’d like some support to drink less this holiday season Ria Health can help. Our telehealth program gives you access to expert medical support, online coaching meetings, anti-craving medications, virtual support groups, and more—all from an app on your smartphone. When it comes to tips to stay sober self-care is at the top of the list. The best way to get through a sober holiday season, or any other holiday, is to take time to look after your own needs. Understanding these triggers is essential to managing and preventing addiction.
Gratitude reminds us that the journey of recovery is not one we take alone—it’s a shared experience built on connection and mutual drug addiction support. Indoor game nights offer a fun, social alternative to alcohol-centered gatherings. They provide entertainment and foster connections without the need for drinks.
Take Time for Yourself
Stress runs high between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, making it a difficult time for those struggling with addiction and recovery. That’s why we wanted to share some tips for staying sober during the holidays. Once you’re aware of the potential challenges, the next step is to make a solid plan. But first, for planning to be effective, you need to understand prevention. You want to build your life so that you’re far away from that line; that way, if the stress of the holidays (or life in general) hits, it won’t push you over that line.
- As we know all too well ’tis the season to overindulge with heavy meals and lots of sweets.
- Staying sober during the holidays is a whole lot easier when there are no substances or substance abuse around you.
- This can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety for those in recovery.
- They may feel loaded with potential triggers and stress due to parties or family gatherings.
- Holiday celebrations introduce specific obstacles for those in recovery, emphasizing the need for preparation and awareness.
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By planning, leaning on your support system, and prioritizing self-care, you can enjoy the season while maintaining your recovery. Make this holiday more than a celebration — make it a time of reflection, gratitude, and hope for the future. Maintaining sobriety during the holiday season is possible by staying aware of potential triggers, having a solid plan in place, and relying on a strong support network. Take care of your physical and emotional health and reach out for support when you need sober holidays it.