The holiday season can be a time of connection and great joy, but it can also bring difficult challenges for individuals in recovery, particularly since many of the traditions around the holidays revolve around alcohol.
Family and friends can help by creating a supportive environment and prioritizing their loved one’s sobriety and well-being. Here are some of the many ways to help someone in recovery manage this time of year.
1. Communicate Openly and Without Judgment
The first step to supporting a loved one is understanding their challenges and needs. Try encouraging open conversations about boundaries and triggers. For instance, you can ask, “What can I do to make the holiday season easier for you?” or “Are there situations you’d like to avoid?” These questions show that you care and are willing to accommodate their needs. It’s essential to approach these talks with empathy, listening without judgment, and offering support.
2. Be Mindful of the Environment
Alcohol is a common feature at holiday events. It’s also a significant trigger for someone in recovery. If you are hosting, consider an alcohol-free event or ensure there are plenty of non-alcoholic options available, such as sparkling water, mocktails, or non-alcoholic beer. If eliminating alcohol isn’t possible, consider making your guests aware that your loved one is in recovery.
Holding functions in a calm, welcoming environment can also reduce stress. Don’t make the guest list too long, and avoid over-scheduling activities. Creating quiet moments and spaces can provide relief from overstimulation.
3. Encourage Sober-Friendly Activities
Not every holiday event needs to involve food, drink, or big groups. Consider sober-friendly activities that emphasize fun and connection, such as:
• Ice skating or a winter walk.
• Volunteering together for a local cause.
• Baking treats or crafting gifts.
• Hosting a game or movie night.
Activities like these not only sidestep potential triggers but also reinforce the idea that fun and fulfillment are achievable without intoxicating substances.
4. Educate Yourself About Recovery
Understanding the complexities of addiction and recovery is one of the most impactful ways you can help someone you love. Learn about common challenges, the importance of boundaries, and the tools people use to maintain sobriety. The more you understand, the better equipped you’ll be to provide meaningful support.
5. Be a Source of Encouragement, Not Pressure
Recovery often comes with a mix of victories and setbacks. Your encouragement can make a difference. Celebrate milestones and your loved one’s commitment to sobriety. Also – be careful not to pressure them into situations that could inadvertently jeopardize their progress. If they need to leave a gathering early or skip it altogether, respect their decision without guilt or persuasion.
6. Have a Plan for Challenging Moments
Triggers and cravings can arise suddenly and unexpectedly during the holidays. Offer to be your loved one’s “escape plan” if they get uncomfortable. Be that trusted person they can turn to for support. It can even help to rehearse responses to potentially awkward questions or situations, like declining a drink or answering questions about their recovery.
7. Take Care of Yourself Too
Supporting someone in recovery can be emotionally draining, especially during the busy holiday season. Make sure to take care of yourself so you can offer genuine and sustained support. Engage in self-care, seek professional advice as needed, and remember – your role is to support—not to shoulder the entire weight of their journey.
The holidays are an opportunity to strengthen bonds and show your loved one in recovery that they’re not alone. Remember, your presence, understanding, and encouragement can make all the difference in helping them navigate this time of year successfully.
Aware Recovery Care Is Here to Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to alcohol, opioids, or other drugs during the holidays and need help in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, Ohio, Kentucky, or Indiana, the recovery teams at Aware Recovery Care are here to help. And we come to you, regardless of where you live. Our unique in-home treatment model of care gives clients a significantly better chance of recovery than traditional inpatient rehab care. We are now offering Virtual Detox and Medication Assisted Treatment in New Hampshire, Connecticut, Virginia, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio as well. Please get in touch with one of our Recovery Specialists to learn more.
