reframing holidays in early recovery

We’re Recovery Unplugged, a behavioral health alcohol rehab initiative bringing effective treatment right to your home. Because if there’s one thing more haunting than millions of addiction deaths, it’s knowing they’re preventable. The Discovery House is a fully licensed, Joint Commission accredited, comprehensive drug and alcohol treatment center located in Reseda servicing the Los Angeles area. We provide detox and residential addiction treatment to individuals from all across the United States.

Setting goals and boundaries

reframing holidays in early recovery

However, one thing that all triggers have in common is that they trigger emotional distress, which can lead to an emotional relapse. Discover how to stop caffeine addiction with effective strategies, withdrawal tips, and healthy alternatives. Learn how to use the term ‘relapse’, understand its triggers, and discover effective prevention methods. Discover what is the hardest drug to quit, understand addiction, and explore the journey to recovery. Explore powerful ways to take care of your mental health, from lifestyle habits to social support. Discover how to start drinking less, improve your health, and regain control with these effective strategies.

Understanding Holiday-Related Mental Health Risks

reframing holidays in early recovery

You are not responsible for your family member’s recovery during the holidays or ever, but you can ask them what you can do to help them. They may say they do not need anything, and that is OK.  You can also decline a request from your loved one if you don’t feel comfortable, “I love you, and I can’t do that” is a legitimate answer. Ideally the holiday plans you make meet the needs of everyone as much as possible.

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  • Such feelings can include a sense of loss about a deceased family member, or feelings of hurt, resentment, anger, shame, or guilt about the past on the part of the recovering person, other family members, or both.
  • If your family member is in active addiction, they will probably continue to use during the holiday regardless of your presence or wishes.
  • Learning about addiction is empowering and helps get everyone involved.
  • Consider an exit strategy or a safety plan if alcohol is being served or if you feel anxious at these events.

If they don’t want any special steps taken to accommodate them, and both you and https://ecosoberhouse.com/ they are comfortable with them taking part this time, then simply go ahead. Recovery Unplugged is a national behavioral health treatment organization with locations across the country that combines evidence-based practices with music to help patients more readily embrace treatment. Recover from addiction at home with medication, community, and support—from the nonjudmental experts who really care.

  • Holiday routine changes can challenge our skills of self-regulation and disrupt recovery support systems like attending meetings and treatment.
  • The holidays are a challenging time of year emotionally for many people.
  • We have tips on how to navigate heading home for the holidays in early recovery, and some tips for family members and friends hosting someone in early recovery this holiday season.

You are sober, but treatment is not over, and you may not have effective relapse prevention strategies in place yet. As such, it’s important to be extra careful, whether you’re staying at home or attending events. Make plans with your friends in recovery from your sober living facility, your 12-Step or other support meetings, exercise groups, work, or other places you have sober friends. The benefit of surrounding yourself with friends in recovery is that you mutually support one another. You may not be the only one trying to navigate the holidays without family.

Take Pride in Yourself and Stay Positive

reframing holidays in early recovery

While individuals cannot possibly prepare for every trigger they will encounter throughout the holidays, it can help to reflect and identify potential triggers ahead of time. The first obstacle that often comes up is the holiday office party. I’ve worked with many people in recovery who tell me that coworkers can look at them as if they have a third eye, or as if they have just sprouted wings, if they decline an alcoholic beverage. Many have trouble just being around alcohol, not to mention the unchecked inebriation that can occur at these parties. To emphasize self-care and manage expectations during the holiday season, recovering individuals should prioritize setting realistic boundaries. Overcommitting to events can lead to unnecessary stress, so it’s essential to assess invitations carefully and only participate in those that promote well-being.

reframing holidays in early recovery

The combination of heightened emotions, social pressures, and the presence of alcohol or other substances can pose threats to one’s sobriety. Having a holiday  plan for avoiding Holiday Triggers and Relapse is essential for anyone who wants to enjoy the festivities without risking their hard-won recovery. Here’s a guide to understanding holiday triggers and how to ensure addiction and the holidays don’t mix. Early recovery from substance use disorders brings up a number of new challenges. For a newly sober person the holiday season can be particularly difficult. While most of the world is focused on holiday cheer, reframing holidays in early recovery addicts in recovery are often worried about potential unresolved family conflicts, relapse triggers, and spending time away from their primary support systems.

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Making lists can help you remain organized and prevent the anxiety of last-minute scrambling. It’s easy to forget about maintaining your recovery routine when you’re in the middle of holiday chaos. It’s very important to prioritize your health and be mindful of your recovery coping mechanisms. Sometimes it is necessary to miss out on a holiday function to attend a counseling session or group meeting.

reframing holidays in early recovery

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Yet the holidays, especially during early recovery, can be a time of great joy and celebration even as you struggle with your addiction. The following tips may help you make new holiday traditions as you work to build your new life in the New Year. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or ongoing recovery, The Recovery Village Columbus can help in many ways.