And if you are not in recovery, but you are at an office party and someone declines an offer of an alcoholic beverage, please accept that as the most reasonable choice in the world and move on. If it makes you uncomfortable that they aren’t drinking, you may wish to reflect upon your own relationship to alcohol. An even more complex scenario can be a holiday family gathering. In addition to the issue of freely available alcohol, many find resentments, conflicts, hostility, guilt, and triggers lurking just below the superficial holiday cheer. I’ve heard it said that your family can push your buttons better than anyone else because they are the ones that put them there. For more ideas on dealing with difficult situations in recovery, check out a meeting near you or online.
Recovery Support
- Managing transitional or liminal moments—times when internal triggers are more likely to lead to distraction—requires proactive strategies.
- By having a plan, you’ll be more prepared to make it through the holiday sober.
- Read on for some tips to keep working your recovery program and protect your sobriety in any occasion and make every day special.
- When offered alcohol, use a rehearsed line or swap glasses discreetly.
The holiday season can be a wonderful time for love and connection. While the winter months are a joy for many, the holidays can also stir up stress, emotional triggers, and challenging family dynamics. When you’re trying to stay sober, it’s especially important to protect your peace, stay grounded, and prioritize your well-being. Here are some ways to navigate the holidays with confidence and self-compassion.
Exploring Alternatives to Alcohol-Centric Events
I felt sorry for myself and isolated myself completely for a couple of days. That’s when a few friends noticed something was up with me. And thankfully, they went the extra mile to reach out to me. We are dedicated to providing you with valuable resources that educate and empower you to live better. First, our content is authored by the experts — our editorial team co-writes our content with mental health professionals at marijuana addiction Thriveworks, including therapists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and more.
- In these situations, choosing to enter or remain in a residential treatment program is not a sign of failure; it is a courageous and self-aware act.
- Include the tools that work best for you in your plan for dealing with those tempting holiday events if you choose not to avoid them.
- But with preparation and the right strategies, you can protect your sobriety while still celebrating with loved ones.
Summary and Practical Tips for Managing Triggers During Important Events
Contact us and learn more about our aftercare recovery program to access the support you need this time of the year. Make them feel included in plans and if you know they are struggling, suggest they attend a meeting or call a sponsor. The healing power of relationships, trust, love and connection is one of the most important tools for families. Trauma can be the loss of reframing holidays in early recovery connection to one’s self as well as well as the loss of critical psychological connectedness between humans. It is intensely painful to be disconnected from the ones we love, and reconnecting in relationships has the power to transform recovery and the resiliency needed for sustained sobriety.
