How to Stay Sober During the Holidays

Holidays are usually merry periods with more time to celebrate, eat, and drink. At least, that way is portrayed on TV and in the media. However, as fun as it may be, for a recovering addict, this period may be a little hard to navigate. Trying to stay sober during holidays can come with heightened temptation. That’s why it is crucial to learn how to stay sober during the holidays to prevent relapse.

Is Drug Relapse Common Around the Holidays?

According to studies, alcohol and drug relapse increases by 150% during holidays. Relapse triggers can be anything; people, places, and incidents.

During the holidays, a recovering addict may feel alone in their journey of sobriety. It may get lonely for those who aren’t with close family and friends. 

Also, for people with families, holidays are a time to get-together, and sometimes, family interaction can be stressful. There are many activities to engage in, many celebrations and parties to attend, which can lead to alcohol or drug cravings.

How to Stay Sober During the Holidays

Trying to figure out how to stay sober during the holidays? Here are some tips to help you avoid relapse:

• Make It Clear You Don’t Plan to Drink or Use Drugs

It’s important to let people around you, especially friends, families, and co-workers you are not planning to use drugs or alcohol.

• Know Your Triggers

When you know your triggers, it would be easy to manage them and prevent relapse. Triggers could be parties, places you visit to get high, or an old friend you drink with.

It could also be some emotions like frustration, stress, or conditions like being hungry, angry, lonely, and tired. Know the triggers that threaten your sobriety and avoid them.

• Start Each Day With a Plan

Make a plan on how to stay sober every day. Think ahead of the places you may be, situations you may find yourself in, and how to handle them. For example, if you have to be with a person who would offer you a drink, think of responses to reject the offer even if they are pushy.

• Bring the Party With You

You may find it challenging to say no wine or start explaining why you aren’t drinking at parties or events. Therefore, take along side-food and non-alcoholic beverages with you so people won’t continually offer you a drink.

• Excuse Yourself

Your recovery is your priority. Always try to leave events and people that make it hard to stay sober or don’t seem to have your best interest in mind.

• Seek support

Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone. You can bring a friend to parties so they can help check you in.

• Find an Activity

When you keep your hands occupied, you have less time to think about alcohol or drugs. Also, engaging in activities prevents loneliness. Engage in your hobbies, go out with friends, and have fun.

• Practice Self Care

Self care does wonders for your wellness. Your recovery isn’t just about avoiding substances but also taking care of yourself. The healthier you are physically and mentally, the better for your recovery journey. Ensure you eat healthily, sleep well, exercise, find time to meditate, and find ways to nourish your body and mind.

• Know When It’s Time to Get Help

Recovery isn’t easy. If things get complicated and you experience stress, triggers, or relapse, seek extra support. It could be from friends and families you trust, healthcare providers, or recovery groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous.

Reach Out to Grace Recovery for Help With Addiction Recovery

For more assistance on how to stay sober during the holidays, do not hesitate to contact us at Grace Recovery! 

Our facility offers treatment and support for people living with substance abuse. We prioritize our clients’ recovery, and we provide individualized treatment and different levels of care because we understand that addiction treatment isn’t a one-size fit approach.

Whether you’re seeking help for the first time, in your recovery phase, or have experienced a relapse, we are here for you anytime at Grace Recovery. Reach out to us to get started with your healing!