The holidays can be a challenging time for those who have substance use disorders. During a “normal” holiday season, one is usually plagued with numerous holiday parties. With that comes the copious amount of alcohol and the challenges surrounding how to navigate this. However, this holiday season will be much different from what we are used to, and the added stress of the pandemic will create another layer to this already difficult time.
Get in Tune With Yourself
For most, this holiday season is going to be completely different from what it usually looks like. With B.C.’s COVID-19 restrictions extended over the holidays, one will have to spend this time of year with their immediate household. This can be good news for those who find their extended family members to be triggers for them. However, the lack of physical closeness to one’s family might trigger others who see them as support.
Take some time to identify emotions. Whether it’s with journaling, meditation, talking to a support person, or even your therapist. After identifying your feelings, ALLOW yourself time to feel them, whether it’s sadness, relief, excitement, or despair. Remind yourself that your feelings are 100% valid and offer yourself the time and space to feel them.
Be Prepared
- Ensure you have the number of your sponsor or your recovery coach with you if you need to give them a call.
- Book an extra therapy session for yourself to hash out the emotions and feelings you feel.
- Download the Avalon Recovery Workbook to take actionable steps in your recovery.
- Attend regular meetings and join Avalon’s holiday events and activities to stay connected with your Avalon Sisters.
Stay Busy
With the holidays comes family gatherings and for many families that means drinking. Be proactive and plan fun activities that aren’t drinking related for you and your family to do. Check out the neighbourhood lights, have a games night, go skating, arrange a family scavenger hunt or go for a hike.
When you’re not spending time with family, make time to connect with women in recovery. Join Avalon’s “Connecting over the Holidays”. This virtual holiday support group connects you with other like-minded women so you know you’re never alone and maybe even have some fun and make new friendships!
Set Boundaries
For some individuals, their family might not be their supports. Their family could be extremely triggering if this is the case, set your boundaries, and stand firm with them, especially if they’re in your immediate household. Only spend a certain amount of time with them, and make sure to leave if you’re feeling triggered or upset. Make sure you’re putting yourself first. You can always get out of the house for a walk or a drive.
Treat yourself
Whether it’s at home with your loved ones or prepping big Zoom celebrations, make sure you have your non-alcoholic drink of choice ready – along with a tasty snack or two! It’s the holidays, so treat yourself to some fun and festive non-alcoholic beverages. Check out our social media and blog post next week for some delicious recipes!
Know your Triggers
Being able to identify your triggers is essential in one’s sobriety. By understanding yourself and being in tune with your body, you can avoid situations you know you will be triggering. If you do end up feeling triggered, have your sponsor’s number with you so you can give them a call. Practice grounding techniques if you do end up feeling triggered.
Celebrate Your Sobriety
Tis’ the season to celebrate after all! Make time to appreciate your sobriety this holiday season. Focus on what you’re taking back now that you’re sober. Write down the reasons why you chose to get sober and carry that around with you. Think about all the reasons the holidays are better now that you’re sober and celebrate your accomplishments!
We know the holidays can be challenging, if you’re looking for support, we have holiday activities, daily meetings, Private Facebook Groups, free-counselling, and a variety of free resources available on our website.
Natasha Roop is a Master’s student in Counselling Psychology at Adler University and is currently completing her Social Justice Practicum with Avalon Recovery Society for the 2020/2021 academic year.
Natasha has been working in the field of addiction for many years and is incredibly passionate about helping individuals heal from both trauma and addiction. As a Splatsin First Nations woman, Natasha is also passionate about helping to decolonize the field of counselling.