The holiday season can be a joyous time filled with family, friends, and festivities. However, for those with addiction, the added stress of the season and social gatherings can lead to relapse. Understanding the common relapse triggers during the holidays and how to prevent and overcome them is crucial.
Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient offers an aftercare program that can help navigate the holiday season and maintain recovery. Our program provides clients with support, accountability, and coping strategies to manage potential triggers. Don’t hesitate to call us today at 888.498.2376 if you or a loved one need help with their recovery.
Common Relapse Triggers During the Holidays
The holiday season is a time when people indulge in various activities, including parties and social gatherings with family and friends. These activities could trigger substance use, which includes the availability of drugs and alcohol.
Other relapse triggers could consist of:
- Stress and pressure to meet holiday expectations
- Feelings of loneliness or isolation
- Memories of previous holidays spent using drugs or alcohol
- Financial strain from gift-giving and other holiday expenses
- Pressure from family members who may not understand the difficulties of addiction recovery
Relapse triggers during the holidays can be incredibly challenging to navigate, but it’s essential to have a plan in place.
Tips on Preventing a Relapse During the Holidays
A comprehensive and proactive approach is essential to prevent relapse during the holiday season. Addressing this issue involves a combination of self-care, communication, and vigilance.
Here are some practical tips to prevent relapse during these festive occasions:
Practice Self-Care
Prioritize your well-being during the holiday rush. Ensure to take time for relaxation, adequate sleep, regular exercise, and balanced nutrition. Try incorporating mindfulness techniques like meditation or yoga into your daily routine.
Communicate Openly
Speak to your loved ones about your recovery journey. Share your worries and triggers with them and ask for their support.
Avoid High-Risk Situations
If you anticipate that certain gatherings may challenge your sobriety, it’s okay to say no. Your recovery is your foremost priority.
Lean on Your Support Network
Reach out to your counselor, sponsor, or support group when you feel overwhelmed. They can provide guidance and encouragement.
Develop a Plan
Anticipate potential triggers and have an action plan. This could include having a sober friend to call or planning an exit strategy from triggering situations.
Maintain Your Routine
Try to stick to your routine as much as possible, including attending your regular meetings or therapy sessions. Disruptions in routines can lead to stress, a common trigger for relapse.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. Navigating holiday sobriety can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone.
How Can an Aftercare Program Help with Avoiding Relapse Triggers?
Avoiding relapse triggers during the holidays can be complex, but it’s important to remember that you are not failing if you relapse. Recovery is a journey, and relapse is a common part of that journey.
One of the best ways to stay sober during the holidays and at any time is to participate in an aftercare program. Aftercare programs offer specialized support and guidance for those in recovery. These programs allow connecting with others on a similar journey and learning new coping skills and strategies to manage triggers. Aftercare programs can consist of counseling, therapy, and support groups.
At Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient, our aftercare program provides a range of services to help clients stay sober and prevent relapse triggers, including individual and family therapy, group support, case management, and evidence-based practices like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Our approach to aftercare is based on proven methods, and all our services are tailored to meet each client’s unique needs.
Call Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient for Help and Support with Avoiding Relapse During the Holidays
The festive season can be full of triggers and temptations for people with addiction. However, it is essential to remember that recovery is possible, and with dedication and support, you can stay sober and enjoy the holiday season. At Vertava Health of Mississippi Outpatient, we are committed to providing comprehensive, evidence-based care for those with addiction. Contact us today at 888.498.2376 to learn more about our aftercare program and how it can help you or your loved one stay on the path toward long-term recovery.
