Notoriously the most stressful time of year, those already struggling with addiction & recovery from alcohol and drugs sometimes find the added pressures of the holiday season a heavy weight to bear.
From the extra financial strain, amplified family dynamics, and increase in seasonal parties with plenty of alcohol to go around, it is no surprise that this time of year can be difficult. In addition, for those who are also affected by seasonal or light-deprived depression, the shortened days may very well have an effect on an individual’s ability or drive to cope without a drug.
Whether a person is new to staying clean and sober, or has been at it for years, it’s helpful to remember that we have choices – and that yielding to the urge to drink or drug is not mandatory. There are also steps that can be taken to help with riskier situations that we may not be able to avoid, and deal with the stress in general.
- Cravings: Eat Sweet. When a strong craving or urge hits, eat or drink something SWEET. You may have heard this before, but it’s worth repeating. Alcohol is a sugar, and you will be satisfying that part of your brain when you eat something sugary without suffering the consequences of another drunk. Yes, it works for drug cravings too (especially opiates). If you’re afraid of gaining weight, take the time to sit down and look at the consequences of drinking or using (be honest!) and then the consequences of a piece of hard candy or some ice cream.
- Parties: Backup Plans. If you’re apprehensive about going to a party where alcohol is being served but you still must go because of work or family obligations, first try to line up a friend who has long-term sobriety to go with you. If a friend cannot come, try to line up at least a few people who you can call from your cellphone If things get sticky. Plan to stay for a limited time, and be sure to park in a place where you will not be blocked in. And however odd this may sound, if you set you drink down and lose track of it for a moment, get a new one.
- Stress: Get Rest. Preventative maintenance can be priceless, so be sure you’re getting not only enough sleep, but enough wind-down time. Now might be a good time to take a step back and listen to those meditation cd’s your friend loaned you a year ago, or stop by the health food store for some lavender oil so you can have a relaxing evening of aromatherapy. The time you give yourself to come back to balance will return far more hours of productivity and well-being. More ideas for stress relief: Accupuncture, massage, exercise, listening to music, kneading bread, knitting, stringing beads, sanding that old coffee table in the garage – anything to get the focus off YOU and into a calming, meditative routine.
Post how you deal with holiday stress in the Discussion Forums!
