By Dr. Chris Dennis | Chief Medical Officer
As the holidays approach, many look forward to reconnecting with family, sharing traditions, and making new memories. However, for those in recovery, this season can bring challenges. Emotional triggers, financial strain, loneliness, and other stressors can increase relapse risks and feelings of sadness, a.k.a, the “holiday blues.”
At Pinnacle Treatment Centers, we recognize the pressure and impact of the holiday season on those managing substance use disorder (SUD). Let’s discuss these challenges, ways to prepare, and resources for support when needed most.
Recognizing Triggers: The Holiday Environment
The holidays are full of activities and gatherings that often involve alcohol, stress, or reminders of past substance use. Here are some key triggers those in recovery may face:
1. Family Dynamics: Family gatherings can stir up unresolved emotions, conflicts, expectations, and comparisons. Stressful interactions can be tough to handle without coping mechanisms, leading to a return to old habits many have worked hard to break.
2. Financial Pressure: From buying gifts to planning events, the holiday season can strain finances, leading to anxiety or shame for some, which may be relapse triggers.
3. Social Expectations and Loneliness: Holiday parties often come with expectations to celebrate with alcohol or other substances. For those without family or friends nearby, these gatherings can heighten feelings of loneliness and intensify the holiday blues.
Practical Tips for Managing Holiday Triggers
1. Set Boundaries: It’s okay to walk away from overwhelming situations or conversations. Allow yourself to set boundaries to protect your well-being.
2. Create a Plan: Before the holidays, create a relapse prevention plan with your support network, sponsor, or therapist. Identify triggers and plan coping strategies ahead of time.
3. Lean on Your Support Network: Attend support groups, contact sponsors, or connect with friends and family in recovery. A supportive circle to rely on can make a big difference.
4. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can help manage stress. Taking a few minutes to ground yourself can provide clarity and reduce anxiety.
5. Plan Substance-Free Activities: Spend time on hobbies or activities that don’t involve substances, like volunteering, cooking with loved ones, or watching a favorite holiday movie.
Seeking Support: You’re Not Alone
The holidays can be a time to renew and reflect. For those in recovery, it’s a chance to build resilience, strengthen your support network, and reaffirm your commitment to well-being. Remember, you don’t have to do it alone.
If you or a loved one are facing challenges this season, we can help. Our treatment options include inpatient and outpatient services, individual counseling, group therapy, and telehealth support. You can get support without disrupting the holidays—our resources fit into your life and help you stay balanced.
If you need assistance or just someone to talk to, reach out. Let’s work together to make this season a positive, fulfilling, and sober one.
Happy Holidays from Pinnacle Treatment Centers!
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