Jameson Pinette
Recovery from a substance use disorder (SUD) is a journey filled with challenges during the holidays, but it is a journey worth taking. As a leading health-care network SUD provider, Recovery Centers of America understands the transformative power of facing our past mistakes, repairing relationships, and conquering the stigma that sadly still surrounds addiction.
During the holiday season, we are reminded of the importance of special care and planning during this festive time of year. Recovery Centers of America, with locations in Danvers and Westminster, is committed to supporting individuals in recovery as they navigate the holidays with confidence and resilience. Recovery Centers of America has compiled valuable tips and strategies aimed to empower individuals in recovery and highlight the importance of special care and planning during holiday celebrations. By being proactive, individuals can effectively protect their sobriety and ensure an enjoyable holiday season.
- Have a support system. Social support is crucial since social isolation is a risk factor for relapse. We all need people to relate to and depend on during our struggles. This can be your sponsor, a family member, or a friend, whomever can provide you with open ears and a caring heart. Many believe that the key to recovery from addictions is being connected to others. Establish days and times that you regularly communicate with your support system. You can also find virtual and in-person recovery support groups. Many 12-step recovery groups will hold 24/7 meetings during the holidays.
- Stay active. Run, walk, ride your bike, do yoga, anything that gets you moving and keeps your mind and body busy. These activities are great for both your mental and physical health and produce endorphins, which are scientifically proven to help you feel better.
- Practice self-care. Taking care of ourselves may seem so obvious, but who do we most neglect when life gets busy? Our kids, parents, partners, or friends can take priority during the holiday season. Practice self-care through activities like meditation, mindfulness, attending a recovery support group meeting, or even home spa days. Allow yourself to be pampered in soothing ways to ward off stress that can trigger drug or alcohol thoughts or use.
- Eat well. The holidays can often feel gluttonous with all the available tasty treats, and unhealthy eating can make you feel lethargic and “blah,” which can breed feelings of “why not?” Why not eat that cake, shop online, drink that alcohol, or take that drug? Help prevent this by eating nutritious, nourishing meals that will make you feel better from the inside out. Eating well is fundamental to good health and well-being.
- Know your triggers — and prepare for them. Treatment and/or a therapist likely helped you identify your triggers and now is not the time to forget. Understand what leads you to want to use drugs or alcohol — an old friend, a certain place — and steer clear, if not entirely, at least on days you may be feeling particularly down.
To learn more about navigating the holiday season in recovery and the services offered by Recovery Centers of America, please visit www.recoverycentersofamerica.com.
