The holiday season is often filled with joy, celebration, and family, but for individuals in recovery, it can be a challenging time. Festivities often involve social gatherings, family interactions, and stressors that may increase the risk of relapse. By planning ahead and understanding potential triggers, you can navigate the season with confidence and stay committed to your recovery journey.
Related: Setting Healthy Holiday-Season Boundaries and Strengthening Your Seasonal Spirit
Identifying Your Holiday Triggers
It can be helpful to take a moment to assess the factors that may pose a risk to your recovery during this time of year. Below is a list of common holiday stressors. Review each item, and note any that may impact your recovery this season:
- More alcohol and drugs at parties
- Financial stress from travel or gift-buying
- Hectic schedules (traffic, crowds, extra responsibilities)
- Disruptions to your normal routine
- Skipping exercise
- Not attending support meetings (e.g., AA)
- Missing therapy sessions
- A festive party atmosphere that might tempt you
- Increased family interactions or gatherings
- Emotional memories from past holidays
- Anxiety about potential triggers and cravings
- Feeling overwhelmed by New Year’s Eve and similar celebrations
- Unstructured free time that could lead to unhealthy choices
- Any other personal challenges specific to you
After going through the list, tally up the items you’ve marked. This can help you gauge your potential risk for relapse over the holidays and give you a better understanding of areas to focus on.
Assessing Your Risk Level
Based on your total checkmarks, consider the following general guidance:
- Mild Risk (1–3 items checked): You may only feel a slight increase in stress, but awareness and a bit of planning can help you manage these situations effectively.
- Moderate Risk (4–6 items checked): The holidays may add considerable stress, increasing your need to manage potential triggers. Planning and support will be key to maintaining your recovery.
- Severe Risk (7 or more items checked): You’re likely facing significant stress this season, making it essential to prioritize your relapse prevention strategies. Be mindful of situations that may feel overwhelming, and don’t hesitate to lean on your recovery network for support.
Building Your Holiday Recovery Plan
With some preparation, you can set yourself up for a successful holiday season. Here are a few actionable tips to help you stay strong:
- Stick to Your Routine: Holidays can disrupt your regular schedule, so try to maintain your usual healthy habits—whether it’s exercise, a morning meditation, or your weekly support meetings.
- Add More Meetings: Extra support can be incredibly helpful during times of increased stress. Schedule additional meetings or reach out to a sponsor or counselor to bolster your network.
Related: A Guide to 12-Step Meetings in Early Recovery
- Plan Ahead for Events: Consider bringing a supportive friend to events, deciding on non-alcoholic beverages in advance, and setting boundaries to exit a gathering if it becomes overwhelming.
- Prioritize Self-Care: With busier schedules, it can be easy to neglect self-care, but taking time for yourself can be one of the best ways to stay grounded.
- Stay Connected: Isolation can be a trigger for many. Even if you’re busy, make time to connect with loved ones or recovery peers who understand your journey.
The holidays can be a joyful time of connection and gratitude, and you have the tools to get through them with your recovery intact. Take stock of your needs, reach out to those who support you, and remember that your recovery is worth protecting. With a proactive approach, you can enjoy the season and emerge even stronger in your journey to a healthier life.
Holiday Season Support at Wasatch Crest
For those who feel they need extra support during the holiday season, Wasatch Crest offers compassionate, comprehensive treatment options to help you stay on track. Our in-person and virtual intensive outpatient programs (IOP) can provide the support, tools, and connection you need during this time. Attending treatment over the holidays can be a powerful way to prioritize your recovery, manage holiday-specific stressors, and start the new year strong. Remember, you don’t have to face the season alone—Wasatch Crest is here to help you every step of the way. Reach out to learn more.Â
