The holidays can be a challenging time of year for those in recovery from drugs and alcohol. The temptation to drink or use drugs may be greater than ever, and needless to say, the holidays can be stressful. But with the right strategies and tactics, it is possible to have a sober Christmas and enjoy the holidays without relapse.
There are a number of strategies you can employ to ensure sober holidays. However, they require you to be aware of your triggers and stressors. For example, some people may not be able to attend a party where any alcohol is present but are fine dealing with friends and relatives. For others, the stress of dealing with friends and relatives contributes to their potential relapse. If your sobriety means you cannot be around family during the holidays, then make plans with members of your sobriety support network. A sober Christmas does not mean you have to be alone.
One of the best strategies for enjoying sober holidays is to connect with a professional addiction treatment center. Evoke Wellness in Coconut Creek, FL offers guidance on how to have a sober holiday season. Call 866.693.3871 to speak with our caring and compassionate staff.
Strategies for a Sober Christmas
Taking part in activities that are alternatives to drinking or using drugs can help take the edge off during this stressful time of year. Here are some ideas for sober Christmas activities and parties:
- Spend time with supportive family and friends; don’t isolate yourself if you start feeling overwhelmed
- Get involved in a 12-step program or other support groups; there are lots of options available online or through community organizations
- Exercise as much as possible; physical activity releases endorphins which can reduce stress levels
- Find creative outlets such as painting, journaling, cooking, etc.; these activities can provide an outlet for your emotions without turning to substances
- Try mindfulness or meditation; these practices teach us how to stay present and focus on our emotional well-being
- Stay busy by taking part in volunteer work; helping others provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment
- Schedule regular check-ins with your therapist or sponsor for extra accountability and support during the holiday season
- Make self-care a priority; take baths, read books, find ways to relax
Alternative Activities for Creating Sober Holidays
Finding alternative activities that don’t involve drinking or using drugs is essential for anyone trying to maintain sobriety during the holidays. Here are some ideas:
- Organize a game or movie night with family and/or friends
- Go ice skating, tobogganing, or skiing
- Visit a museum or art gallery
- Go for a hike in the woods
- Take part in holiday-themed scavenger hunts
- Visit a Christmas tree farm
- Go caroling or attend holiday concerts
- Cooking and baking together
- Holiday-themed crafting activities
Having a sober Christmas is possible with the right strategies and tactics. Support systems, mindfulness, exercise, and alternative activities can all help prevent relapse and make for a meaningful and enjoyable holiday season. If you or someone you know is struggling with maintaining sobriety during the holidays, Evoke Wellness Coconut Creek can help.
Reach Out to Evoke Wellness Coconut Creek
The holidays can be an especially difficult time for those recovering from drugs and alcohol. Stressors associated with the holiday season can make relapse more likely. However, having a sober Christmas is possible!
Strategies such as spending time with supportive people, participating in 12-step programs and other support groups, exercising regularly, exploring creative outlets such as painting, journaling, or cooking, and practicing mindfulness or meditation techniques all help individuals maintain their sobriety during this trying time of year.
Evoke Wellness Coconut Creek offers information and support so that people who are struggling with addiction can have a safe and sober holiday season. Call 866.693.3871 or contact us online for more information.
