The holiday season is commonly referred to as the most wonderful time of the year. However, for those in recovery, managing sobriety during the holidays can be challenging. Remember, there are several ways to enjoy celebrating the holidays with friends and family while staying sober.
If you find yourself struggling in the coming months, rest assured help is never far away. There are many tools and resources available to set your mind and body to ease. Below, the women’s addiction treatment center at Soledad House shares three useful tips for staying sober during the holidays this year.
Stick to a Plan for Sobriety During the Holidays
As you start to receive invitations to holiday events and gatherings, create a plan of attack. Start by inviting a plus one who is supportive of your recovery. For instance, if you are recovering from alcohol addiction, bring a sober companion to events where alcohol may be present. They will act as your copilot as you navigate triggering situations. In this scenario, it is also a good idea to bring your own non-alcoholic beverages.
Additionally, to manage sobriety during the holidays, it can be helpful to have an exit plan for social gatherings. As a result, you will know exactly what to do if you start to feel uncomfortable.
With that being said, know your limitations. If you are easily triggered by drugs or alcohol, it may be a better idea to not attend holiday parties where addictive substances are present. It’s possible to stay sober during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Go into this season with complete intentions of thriving in sobriety during the holidays.
Create New Traditions to Stay Sober During the Holidays
When on the road to recovery at a women’s alcohol rehab center, you will experience many changes. It is no secret the life you led while struggling with addiction is entirely different from the sober life you are living now. The same can be said for attending the same holiday events as in the past.
When managing sobriety during the holidays, it is crucial to make new traditions that do not involve drinking or using drugs. Find sober celebrations in California or your area that are enjoyable. For example, many new movies are released this time of year. Or buy a new board game and host a game night. Creating new traditions will give you activities to look forward to. Plus, it will keep your mind preoccupied, and help achieve complete sobriety during the holidays.
Rely on a Support System to Cope with Sobriety During the Holidays
While it is important to have a strong support system throughout the entire year, it can be most helpful in managing sobriety during the holidays. Lean on friends, family members, or loved ones to talk through any anxiety or stress you are experiencing. Sometimes talking openly about your feelings and emotions is all you need to remain focused on long-lasting recovery.
If you find yourself struggling to talk with someone in your personal network, our women’s treatment program can act as your support system. We help our clients enjoy sober celebrations in CA. The addiction treatment programs offered at Soledad House include.
- Spiritual counseling for addiction recovery
- 12 step program
- Sober living program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Extended care
- Relapse prevention
Many people are coping with sobriety during the holidays. You do not have to battle it on your own.
Manage Sobriety During the Holidays with Soledad House
Managing sobriety during the holidays is challenging but very possible. There are many ways to enjoy the holiday season without using alcohol or drugs. For example, our women’s addiction treatment center can recommend various sober celebrations in CA. To learn more, contact Soledad House at 866.314.3222.
