It doesn’t matter if you’ve been sober for 10 days or 10 years — the holidays always pose a problem for addicts. The joy in the air and the loved ones in the house tend to dredge up those old desires for dangerous substances. The holidays will test even the strongest resolve, but recovering addicts who have retained sobriety make it through this trying (and terrific) time by retaining these 10 guidelines for sober festive fun.
Plan Ahead
Most holiday festivities are organized to the T, so you should know what you’re getting into well before the big day. Different functions will have different atmospheres, and you will probably know ahead of time which parties will pose a threat to your new sobriety. You should only schedule events that you are confident in attending; if you sense that a raucous party will encourage a relapse, avoid those like the plague.
Communicate Well
The absolute best way to maintain sobriety is to speak openly and honestly. Inform any unknowing loved ones of your condition so they can avoid any behavior or speech that could offend or trigger you. You may find many people asking questions about your experience; answer them fully and truthfully. It may be that others are interested in Texas drug rehab centers for themselves or their addicted loved ones.
Additionally, you need to be able to communicate with friends and family when you feel overwhelmed by a situation. It is not rude for you to excuse yourself as long as you explain your behavior — even if it is after the holiday season ends.
Take Time
Despite the giving spirit of the holidays, you must remember to look after your needs first. This means you must schedule time for yourself. Whether that means meditation or retail therapy is up to you; the important thing is to spend time alone, away from the stressful holiday atmosphere, and center your efforts on sobriety.
Keep Distance
You know better than anyone what triggers your substance abuse, so you know what to stay away from. During parties, put several paces between you and the drinks cart, and avoid conversations with people who have enabled your problem in the past. The farther you are from temptation, the less likely you are to think about falling into relapse.
Stay Busy
If you are keeping your mind and body occupied by the holiday season, you won’t have time to think about temptation or substance abuse. The holidays are a busy time, and there are myriad ways you can occupy yourself. Ask the kitchen organizers if they need any help chopping or seasoning; find out if the decorators need any more ornaments or twinkly lights. You can run to the store, or you can entertain the kids. The jobs never cease during holiday season.
Keep Active
Ample research has shown that exercise is the one of the best natural ways to reach a high. The endorphins released during aerobic exercise rival that of the most intense drugs. You can keep your dopamine levels up and your thirst for substances down by engaging in heavy activity throughout the season. Plus, you’ll be able to eat more holiday treats than anyone else because of your excess calorie burn.
Bring Buddies
Because overcoming a substance abuse problem is so traumatic, many addicts make lifelong friends out of the fellow patients in their rehabilitation clinics. During stressful periods, it is helpful to call upon these friends to talk, as they understand the difficulties you’re experiencing. You may even wish to bring them along to certain functions to lend you strength and support.
Be Generous
Your benevolent spirit should shine during the holiday season. Every one of your loved ones should know how much you value their love and support. Whether you place a mountain of presents under the tree or you simply shower your friends and family with affection, you should be especially openhanded during the season of giving. You may even consider donating to causes close to your heart, like organizations combatting addiction.
Maintain Traditions
Every family celebrates the holidays in a particular way. Maybe there is one unique dish you must have on the holiday table, or maybe there is a certain game your family plays when everyone is together. Just because you are sober doesn’t mean you must revolutionize the holidays. Participating in activities that are comfortable and familiar will make the holidays feel more special.
Let Go
You absolutely shouldn’t shut down your inhibitions during the holidays — if anything, your guard should be higher and stronger than usual — but you must realize that you cannot control everyone and everything. You should try not to get frustrated when things don’t go exactly your way. Instead, recognize that you always have complete control over your reactions. Anger and frustration are not constructive; instead, try to respond with acceptance and suggestions for moving forward. With sobriety, flexibility, and strength, you may have the best holiday season of your life.
