Holidays – while often a time for celebration – bring added stress into our daily routine. With COVID-19 impacting our country, that stress is now heightened more than ever before. Holidays are often a time for families and friends to gather in celebration or remembrance. However, these gatherings can be stressful for those who are at an increased risk for substance use disorder (SUD) or who are in their sobriety journey. It’s crucial to be prepared for common relapse triggers and holiday-specific triggers, as well as have effective coping skills ready.
How to Handle Holiday Stress
While holiday gatherings are meant in celebration, they can also lead to increased stress and, for some, potential relapse – particularly in the absence of effective coping skills. The holiday season brings changes in structure and routine. Celebrations sometimes involve alcohol and/or other substances. This time can bring added expectations, responsibilities, and financial strains. And, for some, it can bring feelings of loneliness or disconnect. Learn more about holiday-specific substance use triggers here.
6 Ways to Handle Holiday Stress
Having effective coping skills is crucial – a stressful situation becomes problematic in the absence of effective coping skills. During recovery at Wellbridge, we work to develop and practice these coping skills so that they are more readily available post-treatment. Here are 6 healthy coping skills to support your maintained sobriety during the holidays:
Enjoy the Holidays
As we enter the holiday season, our hope is that you are able to enjoy this time. While there are added stressors – and it’s important to recognize and prepare for them – there is also so much opportunity for enjoyment and hope.
The holiday season can be a powerful reminder of what you are fighting for – good health, hope, personal connections and a new year. Preparing now can help you ensure you’re able to enjoy the season to the fullest.
Advanced Addiction Treatment
If you or a loved one is battling SUD, contact our team at Wellbridge today to discuss treatment. We recognize the increased levels of stress that the holidays bring and want to work with you ahead of time to prepare so that you can enjoy this time of year to the fullest.