Maintaining Holiday Sobriety

While the holidays are often considered a time of joy, they also bring unique challenges and stresses. Stress is a well-known factor that can contribute to relapses in addiction. During this season, it’s crucial to actively address holiday-related stress to safeguard the progress you’ve made in your recovery. Achieving sobriety during the holidays is not just attainable; it’s essential for a life filled with meaningful experiences. How can you navigate this festive yet potentially stressful time without compromising your sobriety?

Similar to the recovery journey itself, the solution is simple but not easy. If you recognize a risk of substance misuse, it’s important to acknowledge how holiday-related anxieties can escalate and potentially lead to risky behaviors. Remember that some of the greatest joys in life come from sobriety, so safeguarding against relapse during a season marked by increased alcohol consumption is vital.

The challenges to your recovery may seem overwhelming, with family gatherings, alcohol-centric parties, and emotional triggers like stress and memories from the past. To build resilience against these triggers, it’s crucial to have a plan.

10 Strategies for Maintaining Holiday Sobriety

1. Develop a Plan: Before holiday events commence, create a plan to protect your sobriety. This may involve ensuring you have your own transportation, attending a meeting before the event, and having a solid escape plan if you feel overwhelmed.

a. Assess Potential Triggers:

Identify potential triggers that could jeopardize your sobriety. This may include specific events, social situations, or even certain individuals. By recognizing these triggers, you can proactively plan to avoid or mitigate them.

b. Transportation:

Ensure you have a reliable means of transportation to and from events. Depending on others for a ride may not always be ideal, so having your own vehicle or a plan for transportation can give you greater control over your movements.

c. Pre-Event Meeting:

Consider attending a support group meeting or counseling session before the holiday event. This can provide you with additional encouragement, coping strategies, and a sense of community before entering potentially challenging situations.

d. Escape Plan:

Develop a solid escape plan in case you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or vulnerable during the event. This plan could involve having a trusted friend you can call for support, designating a safe space to retreat to if needed, or even preparing a scripted excuse to leave early.

e. Attend Sober-Centric Events:

Make conscious choices about the events you attend. If you’re aware that a particular gathering will be centered around alcohol or substances, consider opting out and attending events that focus on sober activities with friends and family. Your decision to prioritize your sobriety is a strength, not a weakness.

2. Avoid Relapse Triggers: Emotional triggers, especially during the stress-inducing holiday season, can be significant. Recognize the increased demands and potential stress on your sobriety, and be prepared to say no to situations that may jeopardize it.

3. Seek Support from Friends: Surround yourself with supportive individuals during the holidays, considering bringing a sober friend to events. If you have a sponsor, inform them in advance about the event to have someone to call for support.

4. BYOSB (Bring Your Own Soft Beverages) & Be Prepared to Say No: Take responsibility for your sobriety by bringing non-alcoholic beverages to events. Be ready with a response when offered drinks, remembering that people often don’t notice the contents of your glass.

5. Find and Create New Traditions: Celebrate your sobriety by creating new traditions, whether it’s hosting sober gatherings or volunteering at support groups. Explore alternative activities like movies, museums, or holiday concerts.

6. Stay Grateful: Practice gratitude for your sobriety during the holidays. Embrace the opportunity to be fully present and create positive memories without the influence of substances.

7. Take a New Perspective: Focus on celebrating your recovery during the holiday season. Consider the positive aspects of sobriety, such as being more present in activities with loved ones.

8. Challenge Yourself Positively: Instead of dwelling on what you might be giving up, concentrate on the gains you experience in sobriety. Be engaged in activities with family and friends, creating lasting positive memories.

9. Remember It’s Temporary: Remind yourself that the holidays are a temporary season, and soon you’ll return to your normal routine. Reaffirm the satisfaction and well-being that come with being sober. You have the strength to navigate this challenging but rewarding journey.

10. Prioritize Self-Care:

Taking care of your well-being is crucial, especially during the holiday season when stress levels can be elevated. Here are some additional details on how to prioritize self-care during this challenging time:

a. Daily Meditation:

Incorporate daily meditation into your routine. Find a quiet space to reflect, clear your mind, and focus on the present moment. Meditation can be a powerful tool to manage stress, enhance mindfulness, and promote emotional well-being.

b. Exercise:

Engage in regular physical activity to benefit both your physical and mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a workout session, or yoga, find activities that you enjoy and that contribute to your overall fitness.

c. Healthy Eating:

Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet. During the holidays, there may be an abundance of tempting but unhealthy food choices. Ensure that you are nourishing your body with nutritious foods, which can positively impact your energy levels and mood.

d. Listen to Your Intuition:

Pay attention to your instincts and emotions. If you sense anxiety or discomfort about attending a particular event, listen to those feelings. It’s okay to prioritize your well-being by choosing to skip events that may pose a risk to your sobriety. Trusting your intuition is a key aspect of self-care.

e. Limit Time with Stress-Inducing Relatives:

Identify family members or situations that may contribute to stress, and consider setting boundaries to protect your emotional well-being. It’s essential to prioritize time with individuals who provide support and understanding.

f. Surround Yourself with Supportive Loved Ones:

Create a supportive network of friends and family who understand and respect your commitment to sobriety. Spending time with people who uplift and encourage you can significantly contribute to your mental and emotional well-being.

g. Establish a Routine:

Maintain a consistent daily routine, even during the holiday season. Having structure in your day can provide stability and help manage stress. Ensure that your routine includes time for self-care activities.

Remember, self-care is a proactive and ongoing practice. By prioritizing your well-being, you equip yourself with the resilience and strength needed to navigate the challenges of the holiday season while maintaining your sobriety.

If You Are Struggling with Addiction or Holiday Sobriety, Consider Rehab During the Holidays

Remember, in recovery and sobriety, we have a choice. In our addiction, we don’t. Some families might consider the holidays a difficult time to help a loved one get into addiction treatment when, in fact, it could be an ideal opportunity. Difficult times create strength, and this time of the year requires a lot of strength for holiday sobriety. Addiction treatment initiated during the holidays could be the best gift you give to your family, your friends, and yourself. For information on holiday sobriety and recovery, contact Little Creek Recovery.