As we know all too well ’tis the season to overindulge with heavy meals and lots of sweets. Of course, it’s okay to partake a sober holidays bit (we are only human), but try to set a limit and make every effort to eat nutritious meals and snacks each day. Strive for a full night’s sleep most nights of the week.
Share Your Sober Journey with Others
On the same note, there are many children whose parents can’t afford to buy them gifts for the holidays. There are often gift drives at local businesses, religious centers, and community organizations. It can be a fun and heart-warming experience to go out shopping for a child, and you’ll know you’ve made a big difference in someone’s holiday. After spending nine days in isolation for a DUI arrest, Valdez decided to get sober; Jan. 5 will mark a decade of sobriety. “Ever since I got out of jail, I haven’t had a sip of alcohol, not an ounce of anything,” he said.
- Diving into the local culture and history of your holiday destination offers a rich and fulfilling experience without alcohol.
- Not everyone has a family or friends to be with during the holidays, a time of year when particular focus is put on socializing and spending time with loved ones.
- From work to managing family and friend obligations, one can easily become overwhelmed.
Recognize and Accept Cravings
For others, the season can highlight loneliness, especially for those separated from loved ones or rebuilding connections post-recovery. Holiday celebrations introduce specific obstacles for those in recovery, emphasizing the need for preparation and awareness. Social events often revolve around food and drinks, with alcohol playing a central role. The pressure to “join the celebration” or respond to comments like “just one drink won’t hurt” can feel overwhelming. Even with the best communication, setting boundaries with family can still be challenging. But it’s important to let them know what you need to feel comfortable during the holidays.
Coping with Holiday Stress
If you or a loved one are overcoming a relapse or facing addiction for the first time, you can find treatment today. Browse our website to find a treatment center to contact today. If you’re looking for resources and tools to help you stay on track in your recovery during the holidays, AddictionResource.net has got you covered. Don’t worry about facing this holiday season in recovery alone. Consider looking https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/9-most-important-relapse-prevention-skills-in-recovery/ for additional support during the holidays through a recovery support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA). One of the best strategies for preventing a relapse is to identify your triggers and come up with strategies for either managing or avoiding those personal triggers when possible.
- Remember, maintaining sobriety is an ongoing process.
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- Arriving back from La Palma on Sunday evening I felt rested, refreshed and like I had completely relaxed whilst away.
- Some of us have even sworn off alcohol completely, and are dreading the constant temptations and explanations that come with the holidays.
Step 2: Navigate Christmas Morning Sober
If you know Cousin Sadie is going to grill you about rehab, avoid her. If Uncle Brian is going to mix you a stiff drink, stay away from him. If Sober living home the office New Year’s party is really all about drinking or other drug use, make a brief appearance or don’t attend. It’s unrealistic in all of these scenarios to say, «I can soldier through it.» That’s what Step One of the Twelve Steps teaches us, right?