The holiday season can be a time of festive fun, parties, and endless social gatherings – and, for some of us, an excuse to let our hair down after a busy year.
However, for those in recovery from alcohol addiction (or other substances), the festive season brings additional challenges where alcohol is everywhere you look, and the pressure to drink is rife.
If you’ve landed here, there’s a chance you (or someone you care about) are either in recovery or grappling with alcohol addiction.
Regardless of your circumstances, this article is tailored to offer helpful guidance and support.
Here, we will cover 7 effective ways to help you stay sober during the festive season, strategies that have helped many others like you.
And they can help you, too.
In the meantime, if you (or someone you care about) are in recovery or you are concerned about your drinking, remember you are not alone.
How we can help
Our specialist team at Centres for Health and Healing is here to provide the support you need for your addiction issues.
Our clinical team takes a client-centered approach to recovery, understanding that every individual’s life experiences are distinct and deeply personal.
At Centres for Health and Healing, we recognise that these experiences shape the journey that has led someone to seek help.
As a result, each client requires a personalised recovery plan built around their specific needs, goals, and circumstances.
Contact our professional team in Ontario today to learn more about how we can help set you on the path to lasting healing or to learn more about our substance abuse recovery programs.
We are here and ready to help.
7 ways to stay sober during the festive season
No matter the time of year, sobriety is a precious gift you give yourself and your loved ones, a testament to your love and appreciation for yourself and those you care about.
However, during the holidays, the temptation to drink can be overwhelming.
Resisting the urge to drink might prove challenging, particularly during the festive season, but doing so will leave you feeling a deep sense of pride and confidence as you enter the New Year.
Whether you are currently in sobriety or trying to reduce your alcohol intake, the following strategies can help you stay sober this festive season.
1. Have a plan
As the saying goes, “Before anything else, preparation is the key to success,” and this couldn’t be any more true, particularly for those in addiction recovery.
One key to staying sober during the holiday season is to plan how you’re going to manage situations where alcohol is present and to be mindful of potential triggers that could lead to relapse.
A helpful strategy is to practice saying, “No thanks, I’m not drinking.” Or a simple “No thanks” will do.
Remember, “no” is a complete sentence.
You do not need to give others a detailed explanation as to why you’re not having a drink. Politely declining is enough.
Another helpful technique is to carry a glass of sparkling water or soda in your hand.
Many people like to hold something in their hand at parties or gatherings. This can be a nice distraction, but it can also be a reason many decide to drink.
Experts say having something in your hand, like a glass of water or soda, can be helpful. You can sip and talk while keeping yourself occupied.
2. Set boundaries
Setting boundaries with loved ones can be difficult, especially if you dread disappointing others or letting them down.
However, your sobriety comes first, and it’s perfectly okay for you to decline an invitation to go out or leave the party early.
This is not a sign of weakness but a powerful act of self-care and self-respect.
You must protect your emotional well-being if specific social gatherings or parties feel too overwhelming or risky. This may involve politely declining an offer to go out or attend a festive party.
Taking care of yourself and setting boundaries is vital and can help you stay on track with your sobriety.
Remember, those who genuinely care only want what’s best for you and will respect your decision not to drink or be around alcohol.
3. Plan alcohol-free activities
This one may be tricky, especially during the festive season, where most gatherings involve large quantities of alcohol.
Tricky, yes, but still possible.
Experts say those in sobriety should arrange sober-friendly activities where alcohol isn’t the main focus.
These activities can include organising a festive dinner, volunteering, or cosy movie nights with friends who understand and support your decision not to drink.
The key to staying sober during the festive season (and beyond) is to surround yourself with a supportive network of family and friends who respect your sobriety journey and encourage you to continue the great work you are doing to remain healthy and happy.
4. Remember your ‘why’
Like most things in life, but particularly for those in addiction recovery, remembering your ‘why’ for quitting alcohol can be instrumental in helping you stay clean and sober, especially during the festive season.
Experts recommend writing your thoughts down or reflecting on why you chose sobriety in the first place. Was it to improve your health, relationships, or overall well-being?
Or you may have other reasons for quitting alcohol.
Regardless of your reasons, revisiting your ‘why’ can strengthen your resolve during the more challenging moments and help you avoid triggers and the temptation to drink whenever the urge arises.
5. Stay connected to your support network
Sharing your feelings with those who understand your journey or have walked the same path can help you stay connected and on track with your sobriety, particularly during the festive season when everyone around you seems to be grabbing the nearest bottle.
A robust support network lays the foundations for those on the path to better health and well-being.
Recovery cannot be achieved in isolation; we need others to lift us up and remind us of our strength and courage.
In our experience, reaching out to your support network, whether a sponsor, recovery group or close friend, can lighten the load and help you avoid relapse.
So, if you’re struggling this holiday season, it’s vital that you share your feelings and seek support from others.
6. Practice self-care
Taking care of yourself and your needs is not just important; it’s vital to your recovery.
Remember, self-care is not selfish. It’s necessary.
Fatigue, family pressures, and stress can leave you more vulnerable to cravings.
When the holiday season becomes too much, or you become overwhelmed, take a few steps back and prioritise resting, eating well, and exercising.
Meditation or deep breathing can help you relax and unwind, giving you the space to reconnect with yourself and focus on your sobriety.
The Calm app offers effective meditation practices that can help you stay calm and balanced amid the pressures and chaos of the holiday season.
7. Celebrate your achievements
Celebrating your milestones and achievements is an integral part of addiction recovery – so don’t forget to acknowledge how far you’ve come this festive season!
Why not treat yourself to your favourite meal, a gift, or a fun day out to celebrate your successes?
There is no better way to reward yourself than by doing something you enjoy, so put on your thinking cap and start planning!
Centres for Health and Healing are here to help
The holiday season can be challenging, especially when you’re in recovery, but you don’t have to face these struggles alone.
Centres for Health and Healing is here to provide guidance and care with a team that truly understands and empathises with your situation.
Our personalised programs and compassionate environment are designed to help you navigate the season and focus on your well-being, with a proven track record of effectiveness that you can trust.
Don’t hesitate to contact us today to discover how we can support you on your journey to lasting sobriety and wellness.
Remember, you’re not alone. We’re here to help.
