Alcoholism can be especially difficult to manage during the holiday season for clients in recovery. Most social events and even professional events during this time are centered on holiday cocktail fare and many who do not usually overindulge choose this time to go overboard. Getting through the holidays unscathed is possible for clients with alcoholism. These tips help make the season more manageable and less intimidating.
Alcoholism and the Holidays
Address Your Alcoholism
If the holidays are especially difficult for you, why not attend a support group meeting each night? The program is there to help you and being in the company of others with alcoholism can help empower you to know you can make it through.
Find Strength in Numbers
Even for those without alcoholism, the holidays can be an especially stressful or depressing time. Don’t stay alone. Surround yourself with loved ones and people in your support system. If you have no option but to be alone, reach out to your sponsor and arrange to see each other more often during this challenging period.
Choose Holiday Parties Wisely
Don’t accept invitations to wild or out of control events – that can be a quick road to relapse danger territory. If you must attend holiday events, go to calm affairs and always attend with members of your support system or other supportive people who know of your recovery journey from alcoholism.
Don’t Even Hold a Glass for a Toast
Don’t chart dangerous territory by increasing temptation. Don’t hold a champagne-filled glass for a toast and don’t let anyone with “good intentions” convince you that just one sip can’t hurt you. It’s a slippery slope.
Plan Lots of Fun
If you somehow get confused that the holidays can’t be enjoyed without alcohol, just think again. Make a busy schedule filled with fun activities that you’ll truly enjoy so you’ll be able to see how unnecessary alcohol consumption really is.
Focus on the Kids
Do you have kids, nieces, nephews, or godchildren? Center your holiday season around the kids so you can get alcohol-fueled events out of mind and really connect with what it most important in your life. You may see that recovery from alcoholism is beautiful for many reasons, including being able to bond with your family.
Look to Faith
Are you a religious person? If you are, use this time to connect with your faith and your local community.
Volunteer
Spend the holidays feeding the homeless, helping at food drives, or working towards a cause you believe in. Give back.
If you or a woman you love is having problems with drug abuse, alcohol dependency and mental illness, women’s drug rehab may be the answer. Remember that recovery from addiction and alcohol abuse treatment means learning how to cope with intensely emotional situations, and identifying when you need help and support. Treatment for addiction relapse, counseling, and aftercare can help you do this, so please call us today. Destination Hope is a full service addiction and women’s health treatment facility in Florida for women who suffer from substance abuse and behavioral health issues.
