While the holiday season is often a joyful time filled with holiday parties, cherished traditions, and loved ones, for many in recovery, it can be a delicate time of trying to remain sober. With all of the gatherings and festivities, there is an increased temptation and level of pressure to partake in social drinking.
Here at Luxe Treatment Center, we recognize that staying sober throughout the holiday season can often feel like balancing on a tightrope, where your newfound sobriety meets your desire to connect with the people you love in the ways you may have participated during active addiction.
It’s important to understand you’re not alone in this feeling, and with the right mindset and strategies, you can embrace the new and improved sober you during this joyful time of the year. Let’s take a closer look at how you can thrive, not simply survive during this time, but maintain your commitment to stay sober, all while savoring all of the warmth of the holiday season.
Planning Ahead to Protect Your Sobriety
Taking the time to plan ahead is one of the most effective strategies to stay sober throughout the holiday season. Whether you are attending a work gathering, family event, or a loved one’s holiday party, getting prepared both mentally and emotionally can make a significant difference in your level of comfort. Having this kind of preparation will help you to navigate potential relapse triggers, all while remaining focused on your end goal: maintaining your recovery.
Here are a few strategies to help you plan:
Setting Firm Boundaries
Take the time to decide in advance what time you’ll be both arriving at and leaving each event. If things begin to feel overwhelming or the environment is proving to be too challenging, give yourself permission to make a brief appearance, matched with an early exit if needed. Remaining in control of your environment will help you ease pressure and avoid triggers of your substance use disorder.
BYO-Non-Alcoholic Drink
Bringing along your favorite non-alcoholic beverage can prevent any awkward moments you may encounter, as well as help you feel included. Whether you elect to bring along sparkling water, a festive mocktail, or your favorite soda, having something in hand can work to ease any social pressure to drink alcohol, keeping you focused on your goals.
Have a Buddy System
If at all possible, elect to bring along a sober friend or at least someone who understands the weight of your journey to remain sober. This can aid with support, especially in heightened moments of temptation or stress. Spending time with a trusted friend at holiday gatherings can give you a helpful ally, permitting you to enjoy the festivities with confidence.
Have a Response on the Ready
People tend to be curious about why someone is not partaking in drinking, so having a response on the ready will aid you in avoiding any surprises. If people inquire why you’re not drinking, prepare a simple, confident response like “I am driving tonight” or “I am focusing on my health.” Having a short and sweet response on the ready can help you maintain boundaries without feeling the need to overexplain. Most people will respect your decision and move on.
Rely on Your Support System
The holiday season can bring up a variety of emotions from nostalgia to lonliness, or even anxiety as it relates to seeing family at social gatherings.
During this time, it’s very important to rely on your network – be it friends, family members, or your recovery group. Maintaining these connections will help you ground yourself and stay strong during challenging situations.
Attend Extra Meetings
For many, attending more twelve-step meetings during the holiday season provides a heightened sense of both community and accountability. Taking time to connect with others who are able to understand your recovery journey will help reinforce your commitment to staying sober, as well as remind you that you’re not alone.
Remember to Reach Out To a Sponsor, Friends, or Family Members
If someone in your life is working as a sponsor or mentor in your recovery journey, consider reaching out a bit more during the holiday season. Taking the time to discuss any worries, stressors, or cravings can help you feel more supported and understood, arming you with tools to navigate the stressful holiday season.
Explore Virtual Support to Stay Sober
If you find yourself traveling or otherwise unable to attend in-person meetings, taking time to source out recovery literature and virtual support groups can be a great option. Many different organizations, including Alcoholics Anonymous, offer online meetings, hotlines, and additional resources that provide you additional support wherever you may be. Staying connected to your support network, even virtually, can make a positive impact on your recovery from substance abuse.
Elect for Self-Care to Strengthen Your Resilience
It’s no secret that the holidays are busy, and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by family gatherings, social obligations, and seasonal pressures. Remembering to practice and prioritize self-care is essential when looking to maintain your mental and physical well-being, which in turn supports your sobriety.
Get a Good Night’s Rest
Don’t let the busy holiday season burn you out! Burnout can trigger old cravings, so be sure to make rest a priority so you remain feeling strong and mentally prepared to handle holiday stressors.
Participate in Mindfulness and Meditation
A few minutes of mindfulness each day can keep you grounded. Taking time to meditate, practice deep breathing, or do elective journaling can help you manage stress and maintain your calm mindset throughout the season.
Stay Active with Gentle Exercise
Getting physical is a great natural mood booster and an excellent way to release stress. Taking time to incorporate gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or even simple stretching into your routine will help you remain balanced and energized.
Celebrate Your Progress and Reflect on Your Journey
Take time this holiday season to celebrate how far you’ve come in your journey to recovery. By taking the time to acknowledge your growth and strength through personal reflection, you will be reminded of your resilience – and the healthier path you’ve committed to following.
Reflect on Your Achievements
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a few months or many years into sobriety. Every milestone is significant. Taking the time to celebrate your progress through addiction rehab can reinforce your commitment to recovery, showing you just how much you’ve accomplished.
Reward Yourself
Treat yourself! Taking the time to treat yourself as a celebration of your hard work can be effective in keeping you motivated. This could be something small like a nice meal or book or even a relaxing day to yourself. By taking the time to celebrate your victories, you’ll be reminded of this positive life you are building, staying motivated to continue your journey.
Five Tips for Creating Sober Traditions
Taking the time to create new, sober traditions can make the holiday season more meaningful and enjoyable while keeping you aligned with your recovery goals. Here are seven tips to help you start fresh, healthy traditions:
1. Plan a Morning Ritual
Start each holiday with a grounding ritual, like a morning walk, journaling, or meditation. This sets a peaceful tone for the day and reinforces your recovery routine and commitment to sobriety.
2. Start a Holiday Movie Marathon
Choose a few favorite holiday movies, or pick new ones each year, and make it a cozy tradition to watch them with friends or family. It’s a relaxing, fun way to celebrate without the pressure to drink.
3. Create a Gratitude Practice
Begin a tradition of sharing what you’re grateful for each holiday. Reflecting on gratitude brings positivity and helps you connect deeply with loved ones.
4. Cook or Bake Something New
Pick a unique recipe each holiday season and make it a tradition to cook or bake it with friends or family. It’s a fun way to bond and enjoy seasonal treats together.
5. Attend a Sober Event
Many communities hold sober holiday gatherings or support group events. Make it a tradition to attend one each year, where you can connect with others who are also committed to sobriety.
By taking time to embrace these new traditions, you can create a holiday season filled with joy, connection, and purpose—aligned with your goals for a healthier, sober life.
Luxe Treatment Center: Here to Support You
While the holiday season can be challenging, staying sober during the holidays is possible with the proper support and preparation and a dash of self-care. At Luxe Treatment Center, we believe this season can be a time of joy, connection, and growth in your addiction recovery journey.
So, whether you are struggling with binge drinking or simply need extra support to get through the office New Year’s party, Luxe Treatment Center is here to offer guidance, encouragement, and resources for whatever you may need. Our addiction treatment programs are designed to help you not only survive but thrive during the holidays and beyond.
With the right strategies and support, you can make this holiday season a time of joy, healing, and memorable moments without substances. Reach out today.
