From the peer pressure at holiday parties to the added layer of dysfunction at family get-togethers, maintaining sobriety during the holiday season can be challenging. It’s completely valid to feel overwhelmed by the sheer weight of it all. Know that you are not alone in the struggle to navigate through the busiest time of year. Fortunately, there are ways to persevere through these times while remaining substance-free.
We’ve turned to our very own Recovery Coach, Dominic Chianese Jr., and Medical Director Dr. David Hendricks, to provide a two-fold approach in getting through this holiday season in a healthy way.
From a recovery coach standpoint, Dominic Chianese Jr. provides the tip of beginning a new tradition for yourself. Try committing to being a designated driver for the evening, giving yourself a new sense of purpose and providing service for your friend and family’s safety. Setting a time limit can also be an approach. Excuse yourself temporarily if things begin to escalate, and don’t be afraid to reach out to your sponsor or support group. Many platforms such a Discord have support communities that can provide support for one another in just a click of a button.
When it comes to navigating dysfunctional families, Chianese also suggests giving yourself grace by not “taking the bait” anymore. “You don’t have to fix, manage, or control other people,” he says, “your family made those buttons and know how to push them.” With a new tradition of prioritizing your well-being, you are choosing yourself.
A clinical perspective from Medical Director Dr. David Hendricks offers a clinical perspective by putting into place an effective strategy. Dr. Hendricks advises to seek “medically assisted detox with an Antabuse (Disulfiram) regimen.”
Support is here for you:
AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)
Al-Anon (support for those affected by alcoholism)
NA (Narcotics Anonymous)
Nar-Anon (support for those affected by drug addiction)
Remember to take time to focus on your own needs in your recovery journey. Make sure there is healthy reciprocity in your interactions and you are not giving in just for the sake of it. By choosing yourself first, you give yourself the care and attention you need to navigate through the yuletide season in serenity.
While this may be the darkest time of the year in terms of actual daylight, keep in mind that across the planet ancient wisdom traditions honor festivals commemorating the beauty and necessity of light that we find within one another, and within ourselves. Take a moment to be grateful for what you have, and for how far you’ve come. But even though there has been friction, it can generate clarifying light.
If you or someone you know suffers from addiction,
Paramount Wellness Retreat is here to help.
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