Living sober during the holidays can seem like a challenge. Actually, a very big challenge. There may be a lot of times during the holidays when you used to spend time with friends enjoying a few drinks or even a glass of wine. Now, all that has changed. To remain sober, you can’t continue that kind of behavior anymore. That doesn’t mean the holidays are now ruined. It just means you’ll have to do things a little differently from now on.
In fact, you can have absolutely incredible sober celebrations. The key is to know what steps to take and to keep the support you need in your life.
What steps can you take today to ensure that the holidays do not put you on the path to relapse? There are a few key things that you should consider. At Santé Center for Healing, we can guide individuals with tips on how to stay sober during the holidays with our alcohol detox program.
Maintain Open Communication About Living Sober
Sometimes, the biggest obstacle to remaining sober during the holidays is the men and women in your life that don’t “get it.” They think one drink is no big deal. They don’t understand your addiction or your past. Furthermore, they have little idea of the pain this addiction has caused you.
That’s OK, however. You simply need to tell them what your boundaries are and that they aren’t welcome to overstep them. If they are real friends, they will understand that you find it necessary to let them know what’s OK with you and what is not.
You may not be very anxious to talk about it openly. The truth is that friends and family members are better off knowing where you stand. Loved ones and friends don’t even have to totally understand all of your reasons for not drinking. They do, however, have to respect them.
Create Your Own Sober Celebrations
Old traditions may not work anymore when you’re living sober. If going to your uncle’s house like you do every year isn’t going to be a good thing as you work to remain sober, don’t do it.
No rule says these types of events are more important than your sobriety. Instead, make plans to spend time with those people at that event during the holidays in a different way. Take Grandma out to lunch. Have a small gathering with your friends at your own home where you can control what’s present. Find your way to celebrate.
Get Into Meetings Often
Remaining sober during the holidays isn’t easy for many reasons. You have a lot working against you, including stress, financial limitations, relationship problems, and much more. For that reason, it becomes important for you to maintain your relationship with your sponsor or mentor. You may even want to continue to receive counseling services or increase how frequently you do during this time of the year. Doing so can help you to maintain your path forward.
Learn to Say No
There are some situations when you cannot do everything for your family. You cannot be there for everyone’s needs. Minimizing your stress and doing things that are more enjoyable and less stressful can help you remain sober. It can also help you to create better memories for yourself and your friends and family that matter to you.
Finding Your Way Forward Means Having Some Help
You have a lot to think about during the holidays. Remaining sober during the holidays may mean getting some extra help. If you are at risk of drinking again or you have done so, be sure to reach out for immediate support. Even if you are feeling overwhelmed, our counselors at Santé Center for Healing can help you.
We offer therapy options such as:
- Women’s drug rehab
- Men’s drug rehab
- Addiction detox programs
- Mental health services
- Intensive outpatient program
Having a Team By Your Side Is the Right Starting Point – Call Santé Center for Healing
It is possible to enjoy sober celebrations this holiday season. If you are committed to your recovery, you can overcome the challenges you face, especially with a bit of help. Alcohol rehab in Texas may be the best solution for you.
Remaining sober during the holidays also means deciding to reach out for help and support from your family and friends when you need it. Let our team be there for you, too. Call Santé Center for Healing to learn more about our treatment options at 866.238.3154.
