The holidays can be a stressful time for many people, but especially those who are new to recovery. As the chaos of the season ensues don’t lose sight of your goal: sobriety. At Tully Hill We know and understand what substance use disorders do to individuals and their families, which is why we encourage anyone early in recovery to be proactive and prepared. Here are five steps to take to help manage stress and maintain sobriety throughout the holidays.
- Talk to your friends and family
It’s no secret that family involvement in recovery is one of the keys to staying sober. Having family and friends as allies and asking for help when you are struggling will help everyone maintain trust.
- Attend sober community events
Your sober support system is another key to success. Draw strength and inspiration from peers who have been in recovery for an extended period of time. They will be able to give you their experience and help resolve any challenges you may be having.
- Thanksgiving Gratitude Meeting: This is an open meeting for community members to share their experiences, hope, and support with patients and family members.
- Tully Hill Alumni Association Meeting: Our outstanding community of alumni know that staying involved is so important to preserving sobriety.
- Christmas Gratitude Meeting: TBA
- Weekly Alcoholics Anonymous or Al-Anon Family Meetings: Tully Hill hosts several weekly AA meetings for the Central New York and Syracuse area. These events are open to the public and all are welcome.
- To find AA events near you download the Meeting Guide app
- Be proactive and have an exit strategy
If you are feeling uncomfortable at an event always have an exit strategy that allows you to remove yourself from the situation.
- Set boundaries
Stress is a common cause of relapse. Dealing with difficult situations that involve family, relationships, or daily life tasks and obligations can cause unnecessary stress. Try setting boundaries with your loved ones this holiday season to reduce stress and brainstorm constructive ways to deal with stressful circumstances. This will help you feel good about saying “no” to temptation.
- Be kind to yourself
If you are new to recovery be patient with yourself. Take some time to relax this holiday season and keep healthy coping skills like exercise, yoga, or any aftercare therapy sessions you have scheduled. Also remember to be honest with yourself and recognize your limits. Do not put yourself in situations that will compromise your sobriety.
Remember to take every day one day at a time. Recovery is a life-long journey during which you will do lots of learning and growing. Learning how to cope with the Holiday season is one of many important life lessons. If you are experiencing difficulties this holiday season, know that help is available. Professional treatment facilities like Tully Hill Treatment & Recovery will assist you in every way they can, to help you thrive in recovery.
