For many of us, the holidays are a season of peace and joy, where we decorate our memories with calm and happy moments. But the reality often looks quite different, and the holiday stressors quickly pile up for the person in recovery from alcohol or drug addiction, making it a difficult time of year to stay sober. Here are a few tips for how you can celebrate with care this holiday season.

1. Ask How You Can Help

Ask how you can ease the stresses of the holiday season. They may wish that you don’t serve alcohol at the family party, that you don’t drink in their presence, or that you don’t invite a certain someone that will create stress. They may be afraid or embarrassed to ask these things of you. Be proactive and ask what you can do to lessen the stress.

2. Have Non-Alcoholic Drink Options

Sobriety shouldn’t mean missing out on holiday drinks. Having mocktails available can help your loved one celebrate along with others without alcohol and without sticking to plain water, juice, or soda. Mocktails are a fun way to socialize with others and can help them feel included without sabotaging your sobriety. To others, it may look like any other cocktail which can prevent unwanted questions about why they aren’t drinking.

3. Introduce New Traditions

Many people participate in the same traditions that come around year after year, some of which can involve drinking games, going out to bars, wine-tasting nights, and more. If you have a loved one in recovery this year may be the perfect opportunity to begin a new tradition. Host a sober holiday dinner. Invite them over for cookie decorating. Go ice skating. Drive around the neighborhood to look at the light displays. There are so many other things to do during the holiday season that have nothing to do with drugs or alcohol.

Ultimately, as a friend or family member, the best thing you can do is to stand by your loved one, not over your loved one, as they take on this holiday season. Do not monitor their every move. Do not demand they act or present themselves a certain way. Rather, just be there and be supportive. Let them know you are there to listen.

Do you feel you or someone you know might be at risk?

Anyone can be affected by substance abuse. Whether you are an adolescent, adult, or have a family member who is struggling with substance abuse, CADS can help with the first steps. CADS is committed to helping those in need. We are focused on support, care, and treatment services designed to meet the needs of each individual and their family members. Start today by taking our quick online assessment.

Be sure to contact us at CADS for substance abuse support, recovery, prevention, and treatment services.

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