The holidays are a time of family, nostalgia, parties, and getting together for meals and to celebrate. For some the holidays are a time of reflection on the past year, and a time to spend with loved ones celebrating good fortunes. They can be a stressful time for everyone, but are especially stressful for those with a history of addiction. Beyond the temptations to party with family and friends, feelings of depression and guilt can be brought up by the holidays, and self-reflection may be overwhelming for those whose lives have been affected by addiction. Relations with family may be strained, or finances may be stressed to the point that the whole holiday experience ends up making the addict feel left out.
For some it can be an overwhelming time of reflection on how their life didn’t turn out the way they had hoped it would.
Why the Holidays are Tough
The stress related to the holidays comes from all directions. There are challenges like not having enough money, having too much family, or not enough family, all coupled with a continuous exposure to an excess of food and alcohol, and pressure to see everyone and do everything. There is also the challenge of being affected by thoughts of the “good old days” and the grief related to past people and relationships that have been lost over time.
Addicts use drugs to mask their feelings, and as a way to escape pain. For this reason the holiday-season can be a delicate time for sober addicts. The likelihood of relapse is increased as a reaction to the uncomfortable feelings brought up at this time of the year, and current users may also increase their drug intake for the same reasons. If you know an addict you should pay close attention to how they are feeling as they may not be forthcoming about what is going on with them because they don’t want to be a “downer” or ruin this festive time for everyone else.
Addicts also need to be extra careful, and should plan accordingly. They should not give into pressure to take all holiday invitations, and only participate in activities they feel comfortable in. On the other hand they should not spend the holidays in isolation, and should be sure to find people who understand their situation to spend time with if they won’t be with their families. If uncomfortable social situations cannot be avoided, then the addict can take additional precautions like arriving later and leaving earlier, or taking a sober friend along for support.
How to Have a Drug-Free Holiday Season
Realizing that the holidays are a delicate time for families as well as those with substance abuse problems, Narconon Arrowhead has a history of increased community involvement and service during these times. Last year our facility helped out by raising food donations for the local food pantry, McAlester Family Services, the Fire Department, a local church group, and a youth shelter. These local organizations distribute food to families in the area that are in need during the holiday season.
For 2013 one of the things that Narconon Arrowhead will be doing will be airing public service announcements (PSAs) to help educate the public on the effects of the holidays on both current and former addicts. They will be promoting their PSAs to local media in hopes of spreading the message about drug free living during these tough times. In this difficult time for both addicts, and the people who love them, Narconon Arrowhead’s PSAs will help serve as reminders that everyone can enjoy sober holidays. Knowing what to look for and recognizing that there are additional stressors for the addict at this time of year will help families better prepare.