Different people look at holidays differently. While it is a period of merry-making and snacking for kids, the adults enjoy and celebrate this time with delicious food & drinks. Hence the experience of holidays is different, especially for those in the addiction recovery process. Managing the holiday triggers as they arise is necessary for a complete recovery.
In this article, we shall tell you a few tips to manage holiday triggers while recovering from substance abuse. But before that, let us know what holiday triggers are.
What are Holiday Triggers?
Things like people, environment, and emotions threatening your sobriety refer to triggers. Such things are typical during holiday celebrations. For instance, you might regularly see a friend or family member who often uses the substance you are recovering. You may also have to see people who may invoke feelings of stress or anger responsible for anxiety and then relapse.
Along with the triggers, some life events or situations may also cause triggers. These include mental stress or frustration due to health issues, relationships, and life changes.
Tips for Managing Holiday Triggers
Here are a few tips to help you avoid these triggers and stay sober.
Create a plan
Before the holiday season begins, you must always think about the events and situations that invoke a feeling of drinking. Once you know them, create a plan to help you manage them. You can figure out healthy alternatives to drinking that will let you stay sober while enjoying the celebrations of the holidays.
Talk to your loved ones
Communicating with your close ones is the key to staying sober during holidays. Your loved ones who know you are going through the recovery phase will help you in your sobriety and will keep you away from situations attracting you to drink. You can always talk to your close buddies and tell them that you will not be drinking at holiday events. Ask them to support your recovery.
Attend support groups
You might have been attending different support groups during your recovery. These support groups are active during the holiday period. You must continue attending these support groups and stay away from holiday triggers. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment to help you recover and share your experiences, challenges, and successes.
Take care of your health
Your physical, emotional, and mental well-being is essential in your recovery. Ensure to practice stress-relieving techniques such as meditation or yoga. Also, eat well and get enough sleep to maintain good overall health.
The tips above will help you manage the holiday triggers and stay sober during your recovery. If you need professional help during your recovery during the holiday season, you can contact Surf City Recovery.
