The holidays are upon us – complete with the juicy turkey, stockings hung by the chimney with care, and the perfect family around the dining table. Hold up…Let’s have some real talk. While the Hallmark movies can create a warm fuzzy feeling inside, they don’t resemble real life.
In working a recovery plan, it’s important to be proactive by setting boundaries to help you safeguard your sobriety. With a solid plan in place, you can rock your recovery journey while still enjoying holiday celebrations.
10 Tips for Safeguarding Your Sobriety During the Holidays
- Find a Sober Friend
Inviting a sober friend to join you at social gatherings where alcohol is served can raise your comfort level. It is also a great way to increase accountability. - Be Aware of Your Triggers
Just because you or your family has always done something a specific way doesn’t mean you have to keep doing it. If there are individuals or situations that are triggers for you, don’t engage. You can even take it one step further by choosing to not interact with them in the first place. If Uncle Fred continuously chastises you or continues to offer you a drink, you have permission to not spend the holidays with Uncle Fred. - Increase Support
Commit to your recovery meetings – and even go to an extra meeting or two. If you are traveling to another city, plan ahead and find some meetings you can attend. Click here for a list of available AA meetings. - Be Intentional about Your Obligations
If you are invited to an event that isn’t mandatory or will have many triggers, you don’t have to go. Your sobriety is more important than making an appearance at any Christmas party. - Have a Plan
If you do choose to go to a gathering where there will be alcohol, make a plan before you even get there. Once you walk in, order a non-alcoholic beverage and hold onto it throughout the night. Most times, people won’t even notice what you have in your glass. - Create New Traditions
As humans, we are creatures of habit. Many times old traditions can lead us to a path of old habits. So create new traditions. It can be a Friendsgiving with your recovery family, or choosing to volunteer or give back. Find ways to celebrate your sober life! - Maintain Healthy Eating and Exercise
It’s enticing to overindulge in special holiday foods that are usually ladened with fat, sugar, and carbs. While it is ok to have a treat, make sure to keep up with eating healthy foods and getting exercise. Overdoing it can not only make you physically feel bad, but it can also trigger feelings of guilt, leading to a mental and emotional battle that you don’t need to endure. - Volunteer
Serving others is always a great way to increase your joy and give back to others during the holiday season. Whether it is planning a food drive, volunteering at a homeless shelter, or spending some time with a neighbor or loved one who can’t get out; giving back is always a great way to spread holiday cheer. - Self Care
Taking care of yourself is important everyday, but especially during the holidays. Take the time to do something for you. Meditate, read a book, go on a walk; whatever “your thing” is, make that time for you. That way, you can show up as the best version of you in every situation. - Foster an Attitude of Gratitude
Intentionally spend time each day being thankful for what you have, especially your sobriety and your new way of life. You can even start a gratitude journal and begin to write down those things you are thankful for.
If you are looking towards the holidays with a little less joy, or excitement than society expects you to have, take a deep breath and set your own expectations for YOUR Thanksgiving and Christmas. Make this holiday season one that is filled with joy for you. And remember, your sobriety is more important than anything else.
Walking the Recovery Lifestyle With You
If you do happen to have a relapse, and you are looking for a place to go, please feel free to contact our TSZ Intake Coordinators. We can support you in the process of detox and getting back on track.
If you are looking for a place to workout, take fitness and other life skills classes, we invite you to check out Hazelbrook Community Center. If you are working a recovery program, the resources at the community center are free of charge.
