Recovery During the Holidays

The holidays are supposed to be a time to cheerfully celebrate, but this time of year can be extra stressful for many, especially for those in early recovery. There is the business of parties, those dreaded gift exchanges with strangers and gathering with friends. Even for those who enjoy this season the stress can leave us mentally and physical exhausted and more prone to past destructive coping habits.

For adults on the younger side with children it is presents the stress of decorations and class parties. For those on the older side or who may be single it can be a time of feeling forgotten and sidelined. Early recovery brings on another social expectation that can be on a collision course with our recovery and that is the increase in alcohol / drugs.

Now is a good time to practice some mental self-care. Acknowledge your emotions and take inventory of your relapse triggers. If it is your alcohol-loving brother whom you used to drink with, acknowledge this trigger and have a plan. Spend time with those in your family who do not drink or give yourself permission to leave before the drinking begins. Avoid prior pre-substance use places and rituals.

For those who are overwhelmed, remember you are human and have limits. Consider all the demands upon your time and energy. Healthy boundaries are an important part of recovery. It is okay not to be a super mom, or the family ATM. Take breaks from the hustle and bustle. Now is the time to practice saying “no” when asked to do more than you can. You do not owe anyone an explanation.

Finally, to those who feel sidelined and who are having to face the holidays without the company of a lost loved one or whose family members are scattered. You too must take this opportunity to make a holiday plan.

Get out of your empty home, volunteer to assist the frazzled younger members, assist with feeding the homeless or visiting the elderly in nursing homes who also may be facing the holidays alone. Try to volunteer at animal shelters, even sign up to work during the holiday to give those with children time off or if appropriate, attend religious services. Call distant relatives to chat even for a short time. Even going out and taking a short walk if the weather allows can help you avoid depression from isolation.

The hardest I think is for those like us who have lost a loved one around this time of year. This can be especially painful. Take time to acknowledge the fact you miss them; some may find it helpful to write a letter or talk to that loved one even if they are no longer physically present. The trick for this group is accepting how you feel without getting lost in the dark recesses of your mind. For the not busy enough crowd the trick is getting out of your own head even if just for a short while.