The holiday season brings a mix of emotions when you’re celebrating a loved one’s recovery from drugs and/or alcohol. While there’s joy in having them present and healthy, you might also feel a touch of anxiety about helping them stay strong through the festivities. It’s completely normal to feel both excited and concerned – after all, the holidays can be challenging for anyone, let alone someone working to maintain their sobriety.
Many people don’t realize that the holiday season can be particularly tough for those in substance recovery. In fact, more than 90% of individuals maintaining sobriety from drugs and alcohol report heightened stress during this time of year. Between the champagne toasts at New Year’s, the packed social calendars, and the sometimes complicated family dynamics, your loved one might feel like they’re navigating a minefield of triggers.
But here’s the good news: your understanding and support can make all the difference in helping them enjoy the season while staying true to their recovery journey.
Understanding the Challenges of Celebrating the Holidays in Recovery
Social Pressure and Temptations
Holiday events frequently involve gatherings where alcohol and sometimes other substances are readily available. Even well-meaning relatives might insist “just one won’t hurt” or “it’s tradition!” These moments, though brief, can feel incredibly overwhelming for someone committed to their sobriety.
Emotional Triggers
The holidays have a way of stirring up memories – both good and difficult ones. Your loved one might find themselves remembering past holidays spent in active addiction, or feeling guilty about previous family gatherings. These emotions can hit hard, especially when everyone else seems to be celebrating carefreely.
Change in Routine
If your loved one has been in addiction recovery for a while, you’ve probably noticed how much they value their daily routine. Regular community meetings, exercise, and meditation – these aren’t just habits, they’re vital tools for maintaining sobriety. The holiday chaos of travel, late-night parties, and irregular schedules can throw these crucial routines into disarray.
6 Tips for Supporting Someone in Recovery this Holiday Season
Supporting a loved one in recovery during the holidays can significantly impact their journey toward sustained wellness. Here are six practical tips to help you provide meaningful support:
1. Communicate Openly and Without Judgment
Instead of assuming what might help, ask directly: “How are you feeling about the office holiday party next week?” or “What would make you most comfortable at family dinner?” Let them know they can be honest with you without fear of judgment. If they need to skip certain events or leave early, support their choice – your understanding means more than you might realize.
2. Create a Safe and Supportive Environment
Consider organizing sober holiday activities that everyone can enjoy. Host a movie night with favorite holiday films, decorate the home together, head out on outdoor adventures like hiking or ice skating, or even volunteer for a local charity. These activities provide a festive atmosphere without the presence of substances that could trigger a relapse. These activities can bring just as much joy while keeping your loved one comfortable and included.
3. Help Manage Stress and Triggers
Work together to develop a game plan for challenging situations. Maybe you can be their “escape buddy” at parties – a simple signal like tugging their ear means “I need to leave.” Having these strategies in place helps them feel more confident stepping into potentially triggering situations.
4. Encourage Self-Care and Recovery Practices
Recovery doesn’t take a holiday break, and self-care is essential. Encourage your loved one to continue attending recovery meetings, therapy sessions, or other sober-related activities throughout the holiday season. Offer to adjust plans to accommodate their schedules. Something as simple as offering to drive them to an AA or NA meeting or joining them for their morning walk shows you value their recovery as much as they do.
5. Seek Out Support Groups for Families
Remember, supporting someone in recovery also means taking care of yourself. Supporting someone in recovery can be emotionally taxing. Consider connecting with family support groups like Al-Anon or Nar-Anon. There’s something compelling about sharing experiences with others who understand exactly what you’re going through.
6. Offer Long-Term Support Beyond the Holidays
While the holidays might feel like a marathon of support, recovery is a year-round journey. Keep checking in after the decorations come down. Celebrate their milestones, big and small. Your consistent presence reminds them they’re never alone in this journey.
Find Addiction Recovery Resources & Support through Axiom Care
Supporting a loved one in recovery from addiction is a profound act of love – and it’s okay to need support yourself. At Axiom Care, we understand the unique challenges families face during the holiday season and beyond. Our detox center and 24/7 crisis care services are here when you need them most.
Our team at Axiom Care can help you discover community support options and learn more about how we can help your family thrive in recovery. Whether you need immediate assistance or want to explore available support, we’re here to help your family navigate this journey – during the holidays and every day that follows.