The holidays provide an opportunity to celebrate life and practice gratitude, but this joyous time of year can also be dangerous for those who overindulge in drugs and alcohol abuse. For instance, 5,505 drug overdose deaths occurred in December of 2016, which was the highest number of overdose deaths throughout that year. Nearly 26% of unintentional drug overdose deaths in that year were among people between the ages of 25 and 34.
Managing stress and removing yourself from social situations where alcohol and drugs are being used can prevent chances for potential relapse. Here are some tips and steps you and your loved ones can take to avoid relapse triggers and enjoy the holidays without drugs and alcohol.
Set Boundaries, Not Walls
Spending time with family can be a rollercoaster – there are moments of joy, but also conversations or situations that might trigger old habits. If you’re feeling unsure about handling certain people or topics, it’s okay to plan your escape in advance. You don’t have to be on the defensive or explain yourself. Having a plan to leave early or shift the conversation is an act of self-care. Set your boundaries – not to avoid love or connection, but to protect the peace you’ve worked so hard to create in your life.
Buddy Up for Your Sober Celebration
One of the easiest ways to strengthen your resolve is to surround yourself with like-minded individuals. Whether it’s a friend who shares your commitment to sobriety or a mentor who understands the road ahead, having a sober buddy can make all the difference. They can be your go-to person for emotional support, someone to lean on when you feel tempted, and a source of encouragement through each holiday moment. The holidays are a time for togetherness, so why not share your journey with someone who truly gets it?
Nourish Your Mind and Spirit
The holiday season can be emotionally and physically taxing. Amid the fun and chaos, it’s important to carve out time for yourself. Whether it’s a quiet walk outside, a few minutes of meditation, or even a journaling session, taking time to reconnect with yourself can help you stay grounded. Remember, it’s not just about surviving the holidays – it’s about thriving in them. So, give yourself permission to pause, breathe, and nurture your mental health as much as your physical health. It’s essential for your sobriety journey and will make you feel more present when you’re with loved ones.
Stay Rooted in Your “Why”
Every decision you make to stay sober is a step towards honoring your health, happiness, and peace of mind. During the holiday season, when temptations can feel overwhelming, take a moment to reflect on your ‘why.’ Why are you choosing to stay sober? Whether it’s for your health, your relationships, or your personal growth, keep that reason close to your heart. Remember, sobriety isn’t about saying ‘no’ to a drink – it’s about saying ‘yes’ to the person you’re becoming and the life you’re building. Let that thought guide you through any challenging moments this holiday season.
Know When to Walk Away
Sometimes, the best way to stay sober is to avoid putting yourself in a situation where temptation is high. If you know a certain party or location triggers your cravings, don’t hesitate to skip it. Your sobriety is more important than any tradition or gathering. It’s okay to say ‘no thank you’ to places or events that might jeopardize your progress. By being proactive and planning ahead, you’re setting yourself up for success. Keep your peace and stay safe, because the holidays should be about joy, not stress.
Other Tips for Avoiding Substance Abuse on Holidays
- Politely refuse when offered drugs and alcohol at holiday events, and devise a list of excuses to use if you feel uncomfortable or pressured by others to use these substances.
- Bring non-alcoholic beverages to parties and events where alcohol is being served.
- Spend more time with trusted and supportive loved ones who won’t pressure or encourage you to use drugs and alcohol.
- Participate in local AA and NA support group meetings if recovering from addiction.
- Manage stress using yoga, meditation, exercise, and other healthy stress-management techniques to avoid the temptation to manage stress using drugs and alcohol.
- Make alternative holiday plans that don’t involve drugs and alcohol, such as volunteering at a local charity or driving around to see holiday lights with relatives.
Medication Safety Tips During the Holidays
- Use medications only as prescribed by your doctor — do not use higher doses or take medications more frequently than instructed.
- Do not use medications with alcohol or other drugs that can cause adverse reactions, like an overdose. Deadly drug combinations include opioids and benzodiazepines, and alcohol and benzodiazepines.
- Do not stop or change your dosing regimen without first discussing it with your doctor.
- Do not use medications prescribed to other people, and do not share your medications with others.
- Hide habit-forming medications like opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants away from others, since these drugs offer a risk for tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
- Flush unused medications down the toilet, or dispose of your drugs at a drug take-back event that is sponsored by your local pharmacy or law enforcement department.
America’s Rehab Campuses offer a range of therapies and addiction treatment programs to help you stay abstinent from drugs and alcohol during the holidays. Fill out our free insurance verification form to learn more about your benefits and deductibles and get started with professional addiction treatment today.
