The holiday season can be a trying time for people in recovery. Here’s how you can support friends and family who are struggling, especially those in the early stages of recovery.
| Guest Columnist
‘Sober squad’ hits alcohol-free bingo night at a bar
It was a good time, but some drinks were triggering
- The holiday season can be a difficult time for individuals in recovery from addiction, with a high percentage of relapses occurring during this period.
- Feelings of loneliness and social isolation can be particularly dangerous for those in recovery, potentially leading to relapse.
- Including a recovering person in holiday activities helps them feel a sense of belonging, which is crucial for their journey.
The holidays are the best time of the year — a season filled with friends, family and fellowship. It is a great moment for us to gather with those we love most, count our blessings and reflect on joyous memories.
For many, however, the holidays can be difficult, especially for those in recovery. As families come together this season, it is important that we keep them in mind.
As someone celebrating being more than 20 years sober, I can relate to people who find this time of the year to be nerve-racking, especially those in the early stages of recovery. It’s during this time that over 85% of individuals relapse, and the holidays can only exacerbate the issue, especially when it is someone’s first time being around family and friends post-treatment.
Doing the simple things to support our loved ones
In a season filled with love and joy, it is important that we support our family members who are struggling, and it all starts by doing the simple things that show we care.
Alcohol-free celebrations are a great start. It shows a heartfelt sense of solidarity with your recovering family member. As your loved one progresses on their journey, they may start to feel comfortable around alcohol again. For me, this step took time, and it varies for everyone. The holidays are a celebration, and there will always be pressure to drink. But for those in recovery, even one drink is one too many.
Avoiding triggers and stressful conversations is a good idea in general, but especially for those in recovery. Conversations centered on one’s past experiences can reintroduce old traumas, which can lead to anger and frustration. The financial stress associated with giving gifts can also be triggering. Not to mention, hot-button issues like politics can be stress-inducing as well. As those healing from addiction look to reclaim their lives, their ultimate focus should be on themselves.
Helping those in recovery feel like they belong
While families and friends gather a few times during the holiday season, there are many other days where those in recovery may be by themselves, leading to increased feelings of loneliness. For many of us, loneliness is an unfortunate but occasional fact of life. For an addict in recovery, it can be fatal. Studies have shown that social isolation is linked to abuse, relapse and overdose.
Those in recovery may avoid social interactions because they are embarrassed by their past, causing them to lose touch with family and friends. They often feel a loss of identity and forget how to build lasting relationships. Belonging is ultimately what they are seeking, and the holidays provide many opportunities.
Reach out to your loved one and take them to see a Christmas show, look at lights or go caroling. While these holiday traditions may be uneventful to some, your family member on the path to recovery will greatly appreciate the effort. Lifting their spirits and including them in your activities is one of the best gifts they can receive.
The path to recovery is a long, strenuous process that requires dedication, resilience and a willingness to confront challenges. This holiday season let’s be mindful of our loved ones and give them the support they need to thrive.
Shawn Baker is the CEO and founder of Freeman Recovery Center.
