December, known for its festivities, can be a tough month for those on the path of addiction recovery. The holiday parties and social gatherings might pose challenges. But with the right strategies and self-care, it's possible to have a fun season while maintaining your sobriety.
At Falcon Urgent Care, we understand the complexities of addiction recovery, especially during this festive season. We're committed to addressing substance abuse and its impact on your health. With 29.5 million people aged 12 and older affected by alcohol abuse in the last year, and with 16 million individuals worldwide struggling with opioid addiction, our mission is clear.
As the holiday season approaches, it can bring stress, and overcoming these challenges often involves an uphill battle that is 80% mental and 20% physical.
What Are The Most Common Types of Substance Addiction Worldwide?
Addiction is a global crisis that affects individuals, families, and communities on a massive scale. Three of the most common types of substance addiction worldwide are the following:
- Alcohol Addiction: Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism, is a widespread global issue. In the United States, alcohol is the most abused substance, with over 3 million deaths annually. Severe consequences include negative effects on physical health, strained relationships, and impaired daily functioning.
- Opioid Addiction: This addiction includes prescription pain relievers (e.g., oxycodone) and illicit drugs (e.g., heroin). The risks are significant, from fatal overdoses to long-term health issues. Around 16 million people worldwide have experienced or currently suffer from opioid use. In the United States alone, approximately 187 deaths occur daily due to opioid overdoses.
- Nicotine Addiction: Nicotine addiction, commonly associated with tobacco products, is a widespread issue impacting many individuals worldwide. In the United States, cigarette smoking alone causes over 480,000 deaths annually. Globally, tobacco use leads to more than 8 million deaths each year. Around 85% of daily cigarette smokers struggle with nicotine addiction.
The devastating toll these addictions take on individuals and society cannot be underestimated. So we need to ensure sobriety this holiday season, but how? Let's explore tips to maintain a sober and enjoyable December during addiction recovery.
1. Prioritize Sobriety
This holiday, make recovery from alcohol, smoking, or opioid addiction your priority. Opt for a sober season filled with wellness activities and therapy groups. Each day of not drinking, smoking, or using opioids strengthens your resolve and helps you avoid relapses.
Choosing sobriety is a brave step towards regaining control of your life and setting the stage for a brighter New Year.
2. Plan for Social Events
For those in addiction recovery, managing social events during the holiday season can be a key part of maintaining sobriety. Here’s how to approach these gatherings:
Bring Substance-Free Options: Choose non-alcoholic drinks, vape, or alternatives to support your recovery from alcohol, smoking, or opioid addiction, reducing relapse triggers.
Choose Supportive Company: Spend time with sober friends and family who respect your commitment to a substance-free life, reinforcing your resolve.
Remember Your Goals: Reflect on your decision to quit drinking, smoking, or using opioids. This focus aids in managing potential triggers.
Utilize Treatment Resources: Apply your learned coping strategies to maintain a sober season.
These steps contribute to a sober Christmas and a successful recovery process, making the holiday season enjoyable while staying true to your commitment to health and sobriety.
3. Have an Exit Strategy
Triggers, including stress, peer pressure, and anxiety, can't always be avoided and may lead to relapse. It's important to identify possible triggers, notice early signs, and create an exit strategy.
Keep a support network of trusted friends and your therapist within immediate reach. Assert your boundaries by rejecting discomforting situations.
Attend big social gatherings but leave early to reduce triggers while staying socially engaged.
4. Bring A Friend To Holiday Celebrations
Bringing a friend to holiday events can ease anxiety and provide moral support. They can also act as a safeguard against any temptation to drink.
If you cannot find a companion, ensure you have a confidante, such as a sponsor, available for a call when situations become challenging.
Consider engaging a personal recovery assistant who can accompany you to gatherings, posing as a friend or colleague, to help you stay focused on sobriety.
5. Stick to Your Treatment Program
It's easy to get distracted during the holiday season, but it's important to stay committed to your treatment programs. Whether it's attending therapy sessions or taking prescribed medications, continue to receive treatment as planned.
These actions can help you avoid relapse, manage substance use disorders, and cope with any negative feelings or anxiety that may arise.
Keep in mind that every step you take in your treatment program brings you closer to regaining control over your life and improving your self-worth.
6. Practice Your Responses in Advance
Practicing your responses in advance can help reduce potential discomfort during discussions about alcohol, smoking, and opioid use. This approach not only lightens the mood in social interactions but also enhances your enjoyment of a sober season.
Most importantly, it reinforces your commitment to staying free from alcohol, smoking, and opioid addiction, and helps prevent relapses.
7. Involve Your Family
Involving your family in your recovery journey can be a transformative and powerful step. This process enables them to comprehend your struggles with substance abuse better, leading to increased empathy and reduced judgment.
Here are some reasons how they can support you:
Family members recognize and empathize with your substance abuse challenges.
They provide emotional support during the stressful festive season.
Their involvement encourages commitment to your recovery goals.
Open family discussions help resolve conflicts, promoting a supportive environment.
Through family therapy, they learn to assist your recovery and maintain a substance-free festive environment.
8. Avoid Triggers
Avoiding triggers is essential to maintain sobriety and prevent relapse. This means staying away from situations or places that remind you of past drinking, smoking, or opioid use.
Potential triggers could include:
Social Gatherings: Especially in places with easy access to alcohol, cigarettes, or opioids.
People: Particularly friends who still use substances.
Emotional Triggers: Such as loneliness, isolation, or grief.
Holiday Associations: Traditions or decorations linked to past substance use.
Holiday Pressure and Expectations: They strive for 'perfect' holidays or cope with unstructured free time.
9. Plan a Sober Holiday Event & Invite Your Loved Ones
Hosting a sober holiday gathering is a great way to celebrate with loved ones without alcohol or other substances, especially opioids. Choose activities like cooking, crafting, or group games that focus on shared experiences.
Planning such an event, you create a welcoming, substance-free atmosphere that supports your own recovery journey and others on a similar path. It's a safe and joyful environment where everyone can fully engage in the holiday spirit together.
10. Be the Designated Driver
Taking on the role of the designated driver is a proactive way to stay sober. It shows your commitment to a substance-free lifestyle and provides a valuable service by ensuring a safe ride home for others.
It's a win-win situation - you uphold your sobriety pledge while keeping your loved ones safe. This responsible act strengthens your determination and has a positive impact on the event.
Have A Sober Holiday Season With Falcon Urgent Care
The holiday season can be challenging for those struggling with addiction. But remember, you're not alone, and it's possible to have a healthy, sober Christmas. At Falcon Urgent Care, we provide personalized care tailored to your unique journey. Our dedicated team equips you with tools and guidance to overcome this festive period without resorting to substances. Don't let addiction overshadow your holiday cheer.
Contact Us For Personalized Care And Support
If you or a loved one are on the path to recovery, you don't have to face the holiday season alone. Our compassionate team offers personalized care, including Suboxone therapy, to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for long-term sobriety. Let Falcon Urgent Care be part of your journey and make this holiday season a milestone on your path to recovery. Give yourself the gift of a sober, joyous Christmas—reach out to us today.
FAQs
How can I manage holiday stress while on Suboxone treatment?
Combine your Suboxone treatment with stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, exercise, and therapy. Also, plan your activities carefully, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your support system at Falcon Urgent Care for additional guidance.
Is it okay to attend parties where substances will be present?
This depends on your stage of recovery and comfort level. If you choose to attend, have a plan in place for how to handle potential triggers and leave early if necessary. It might be safer to avoid such gatherings if you're early in your recovery journey.
How can I politely decline alcohol or substances at social events?
It's okay to keep your response simple and straightforward. You can simply say, “No, thank you” or “I'm not drinking/using tonight.” You're not obligated to explain further, but if you wish, you can say you're driving, focusing on health, or just prefer not to.
What steps should I take if I relapse during the holidays?
If a relapse occurs, it's important to seek help immediately. Contact your counselor, reach out to your support network, and get in touch with Falcon Urgent Care for guidance and to reestablish your treatment plan. Remember, relapse doesn’t mean failure; it's a step in the journey of recovery.
What are some common triggers during the holiday season?
Triggers can vary widely from person to person, but during the holiday season, they often include social gatherings where alcohol is present, feelings of loneliness or isolation, stress, and exposure to certain people or environments associated with past substance use.
What if I feel alone during the holiday season?
Feelings of loneliness can be particularly challenging during the holiday season. Reach out to your support network, attend support group meetings, or consider volunteering or participating in community events. And remember, if you need medical assistance during this time, Falcon Urgent Care is there to help. You're not alone—there are many resources available to you.
