The holiday season can be stressful for anyone; there’s colder weather, more traffic, and higher expectations than any other part of the year. Holidays can be joyful, but also challenging, for people in recovery. A lot of emotions are attached to the season. This is why having a recovery plan and a program is so important; everyone needs to feel supported during the holiday season.
Taking care of yourself, finding ways to be joyful in sobriety, and living with meaning are all important during this season. Support is also essential.
Why Are the Holidays So Hard for People in Recovery?
Holidays can indeed be triggering and difficult for people in recovery, especially people who are newly sober and coping with raw emotions. You may feel lonely, dwell on old resentments or family conflict, feel grief, or be dealing with the aftermath of unresolved trauma during the season. That’s why it’s one of the most stressful times of the year. It comes with baggage.
There’s a lot of pressure to always “feel good” and have a good time during the holiday season. But the truth is that life isn’t a Christmas movie. It can be a little messy for all people, and people in recovery are no different. However, people in recovery are lucky to have coping tools. Preparing for the upcoming season can help you maintain calm and grab a little serenity along the way.
Relapse is a serious concern; research shows that relapses among people in recovery skyrocket 150% during the holiday season.
Avoiding Environmental Triggers
Alcohol-centered gatherings, office parties, and traditions that involve drinking can be a big trigger for people in recovery. Avoiding these situations is ideal. It’s okay to say “no” to a drinking party and offer up an alternative way to celebrate. Don’t plan to go to a bar or a party where alcohol is the main form of entertainment.
Whenever there’s a gathering, there’s a danger of being offered drinks. Don’t put yourself in situations where you may be triggered to relapse.
Set Boundaries and Plan Ahead
The holidays can be stressful for anyone, but especially if you’re working to stay sober. One of the most important steps is setting clear boundaries with loved ones.
Decide ahead of time which events you want to attend and which ones it’s okay to skip. Knowing when to leave or politely decline an invitation can help you stay in control and protect your recovery.
It also helps to create a personal support plan. Reach out to your sponsor, a sober friend, or an accountability partner who can check in with you before, during, and after events that you’re worried about attending.
Prepare and Protect Your Sobriety
Practicing your responses to offers of alcohol or drugs can make a big difference. Think about what you can say if someone offers you a drink, and consider keeping a non-alcoholic beverage in your hand to avoid questions or pressure.
Another key step is recognizing your triggers. Notice the people, places, or situations that could tempt you to drink. Before attending any gathering, make an exit plan so you can leave safely if you start feeling uncomfortable.
- Decide which events to attend and when to decline.
- Have a sponsor, sober friend, or accountability partner for support.
- Prepare responses for offers of alcohol and keep a non-alcoholic drink handy.
- Recognize triggers and make an escape plan before attending.
Sober Meetings and Parties
During the holidays, many people in recovery find support through 12-step or other recovery meetings. Some groups offer extended hours or special holiday sessions to help those who might feel stressed or isolated. Certain locations even host holiday marathons with meetings running all day or overnight, giving extra opportunities to connect with others who understand the challenges of sobriety.
Sober holiday parties are another great option. These gatherings are alcohol-free and often hosted by recovery organizations, treatment centers, or local churches. They usually include music, gift exchanges, games, and potluck meals, creating a fun and safe environment to celebrate without alcohol.
Many sober clubs have extended hours or special holiday 12-step meetings and host overnight marathons for anyone to attend.
Local 12-step programs also often hold alcohol-free parties with dances, games, gift exchanges, and potluck meals. Listen to the announcements during meetings and look for booklets afterwards to get in the know. Plug into your network and your sober community to make new memories and cope with stress.
Sober Living Brings Community Year-Round
If you or a loved one is looking for a way to live in a sobriety-focused community, you’re in the right place. Sober homes are a great way to get back on your feet and live with others focused on a substance-free life.
