Sobriety and the Holiday Season

For a lot of people in recovery, the holiday season can be a trying time. Such an occasion brings together family, friends and oftentimes alcohol. For this reason, the month of December can be a rough one. It is one of the months known for heavy drinking and using drugs including all the negative consequences involved such as Emergency Room visits and overdose deaths as reported in many newspapers across the country. These negative consequences can be avoided and you can have a sober and enjoyable holiday season if you keep a few simple concepts in mind:

• Remember that staying sober gets top billing over anything else
• Reaffirm your intentions to sobriety and stay focused
• If a relapse does occur call 1-800-468-6933 and talk to an addiction specialist

The rate of relapse for those in recovery is also higher during this time of year, so one method to prevent relapse is to not blindly step into any situation without having first thought out what the possible negative effects could be.

For example, if there is going to be a lot of alcohol around a family gathering or work-related event, some thought has to be given before attending. It is always best to have a contingency plan because it will offer a way out. Some of these may include:

• Having a sober loved one or friend at your side
• Making sure that friends or loved ones are available to call
• Combating negative thoughts by taking a walk and focusing on your surroundings

Many substance abusers carry memories of past holiday seasons that are not pleasant. Dwelling on previous experiences people wish they could change is a condition that can sometimes evoke emotions of guilt, shame, and depression which can lead to a relapse.

What to do

The key ingredient to a successful holiday season is to focus on enjoying time with friends and family, focus on staying in the present, and create new, positive drug- and alcohol-free experiences.

The time for building a foundation for a happy future is now, and with each sober day, the foundation gets stronger and stronger. Stay vigilant and focused on ending each day of the holiday season sober. Your best intentions can be fulfilled, and the reward can only add to a new life that is full of wins, not losses.

With that said:  Happy Holidays!