The holidays are a complex mixture of joys and sorrows, sweet and bittersweet memories, and childhood longings that may still come to mind as we share the season with family and friends. It is a special season which celebrates peace on earth and goodwill towards our fellow man, but which has become intermingled with commercialism and financial demands and social obligations. It is also a time when alcohol and illicit drugs can flow far too freely.
Holiday Stress
While we all experience different stresses during the holiday season, seeking to cope the best we can will its demands and pressures, those in recovery from substance abuse remain most vulnerable.
According to one professional in the field of drug and alcohol rehabilitation, and CEO of a Southern California-based rehab center, the period of time from Thanksgiving to New Year’s is a time when many who are addicted to alcohol and drugs will attempt to ignore their condition in order to participate in the celebration and camaraderie of holiday get-togethers, parties and family gatherings.
Studies reveal that drunk driving accidents, cases of depression and incidents of domestic violence all increase over the holiday season. Additionally, studies have found that many of such incidents are tied to drug and alcohol abuse stemming from those attempting to cope with holiday stresses
A Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study published in 2006 reported that victims of suicide frequently tested positive for illicit drugs or alcohol. Furthermore, approximately 33% tested positive for alcohol; 16 % tested positive for opiates; 9 % tested positive for cocaine; and another 8% of the suicides tested positive for marijuana.
Some Things You Can Do
Knowing ahead of time that the holiday season is a source of stress for those in early recovery especially, it falls upon the person seeking to maintain sobriety as well as family members and other loved ones to take preventive measure to support recovering addicts and alcoholics.
There are a number of ways to implement some simple but effective measure that will help to ensure that the holidays can be safely enjoyed by all.
The basics include making plans ahead of time, ensuring there is a designated driver for every get-together, and standing-by to help if an addict in recovery is experiencing drug or alcohol cravings. By being observant and aware, and by understanding the challenges facing the individual in recovery, family members are able to be a valuable and effective source of support.
Additional helpful actions which family members and friends of the addict in recovery can implement over the holiday season to help with drug or alcohol cravings include:
Alternatives to Alcohol
There are a number of creative ways to provide non-alcoholic drinks which are festive, tasteful and enjoyable. Sparkling water mixed with fruit juices such as cranberry or lemonade, and served in a pretty holiday glass complete with garnish are very suited to a sober holiday.
Plan Ahead
Holiday get-togethers, family gatherings and parties require an effective plan which protects the hard-won sobriety of a person in recovery. Ensure there is a stable friend or companion with a record of long-term sobriety who can accompany the person in recovery to any get-togethers where alcohol will be served. Better yet, decline any invitations where alcohol will be served, and avoid the risk of triggers and relapse.
Cravings
Alcohol and sugar are closely linked, and eating or drinking something sweet can alleviate the craving for alcohol or a drug, especially opiates. There is no doubt that the holiday season offers an abundance of sweets from which to choose.
Take Care of Yourself
It is vital to recovery–and even more so in times of stress–to get adequate sleep, maintain a nutritious diet, and get a bit of exercise. Life and its challenges are more easily met when a person is well-fed and well-rested. A pleasant walk, a relaxing swim, or a trip to gym are all therapeutic, and can help a person in recovery get through the holidays safely.
If you are still struggling with substance abuse this holiday season, there is help. Please visit call us today for more information.