The holiday season is often filled with joy, laughter, and the company of loved ones. As we approach Thanksgiving, many people in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction may feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. While this holiday is traditionally a time for feasting and celebration, it can also be a triggering and challenging time for those who are trying to maintain their sobriety.
Prepare Ahead for Thanksgiving Challenges
The pressure to conform to traditional holiday celebrations can be overwhelming. Family gatherings, with their dynamics and expectations, can add additional stress. The challenge lies in finding a balance between honoring the holiday and staying true to your commitment to recovery. It requires those in recovery to be proactive and mindful, making conscious choices that prioritize and protect their sobriety. By acknowledging the challenges you may face during Thanksgiving, you can better prepare yourself and develop strategies to get through them. For example, you may need to set boundaries, politely decline invitations to events that may trigger cravings, or find alternative ways to celebrate that safeguard your sobriety.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in this struggle. Many others in recovery from substance use disorders face similar challenges during the holiday season. It is helpful to reach out to a member of your support network, such as your sponsor or friend from your support group, who can provide guidance, understanding, and encouragement.
Creating New Sober Traditions for Thanksgiving
The holiday season is a time for traditions, but when you are in addiction recovery, it can be necessary to create new traditions that support your sobriety.
Here are three ideas for starting a new sober Thanksgiving tradition:
- One way to create new sober traditions is to focus on activities that do not involve alcohol or drugs. Instead of gathering around the TV for a football game, consider organizing a Thanksgiving-themed competition like a scavenger hunt or a friendly game of touch football. Engaging in physical activities not only distracts from the temptation to use drugs or drink alcohol, but it also helps release endorphins and boost your overall well-being.
- Another option is to volunteer as a family or with friends. Find a local soup kitchen or homeless shelter that serves Thanksgiving meals and offer to help. Not only will you be giving back to the community, but you will also be connecting with others who may be going through similar struggles. Helping others can be incredibly rewarding and can help shift your focus from your own challenges to the needs of others.
- Lastly, consider starting new traditions centered around gratitude and reflection. Set aside time during the day for everyone to share what they are grateful for or encourage everyone to write down their blessings and place them in a gratitude jar. Taking a moment to acknowledge the positives in our lives can help us find joy in the present moment.
By creating new sober traditions for Thanksgiving, you can break free from old patterns and embrace a holiday that supports your recovery journey. Keep in mind that the most important aspect of Thanksgiving is not the food or drinks, but rather the time spent with loved ones and the opportunity to express gratitude. Let this holiday be a reminder of the progress you have made in your recovery and the hope for a positive future.
Five Tips to Stay Sober During the Holidays
- Prioritize your addiction recovery. This means being proactive and setting boundaries with ourselves and others. Let your family and friends know about your commitment to sobriety and ask for their support. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network can make all the difference.
- Have a plan in place before attending holiday gatherings or events. Think about potential triggers and how you can avoid or cope with them. This may involve bringing non-alcoholic beverages or having a support person with you.
- Always have an exit plan in case you feel uncomfortable. Take your vehicle so you can leave whenever you want. If you do not have a vehicle, have a person you can call for help who is aware of your situation. By having a plan ahead of time, you know exactly what you need to do. You do not have to spend time worrying about “what-ifs.”
- Practice self-care. Take time for yourself to recharge and relax. Engage in activities that bring you peace and happiness, whether it is going for a walk, practicing mindfulness meditation, or journaling.
- Reach out to your recovery community, whether by attending support group meetings or connecting with a sponsor. Share your struggles, seek advice, and lean on the support of others who have been through similar experiences.
Do Not Struggle Alone
Are you or someone you care about struggling with alcohol or drug addiction? If the answer is yes, we can help. At Canyon Vista Recovery Center in Mesa, Arizona, our skilled professionals will help you regain control of your life. Now is the time to take the first step on the path to recovery. Contact Canyon Vista today.
