Staying sober during the holidays is a huge concern for many addicts and alcoholics in early sobriety. Many families celebrate these days with tons of food and tons of alcohol and in the beginning it maybe hard to say no to just one drink. With Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah all around the corner you should be excited about this new time of your life, not worried.
When thinking about staying sober during the holidays you should keep in mind where you were this time last year. Many of us probably spent these days alone and miserable and were possibly banned from our family’s homes. We should be filled with happiness and pride that we have made it out from the dark grips of addiction and have survived to see another holiday season.
For some the bridges that they have burned in the past maybe to destroyed to try to cross again so soon, but for others this is a great time to try and rebuild those lost relationships. This is a time to prove to your loved ones how far you’ve come and that you are not the same person that they came to hate while using. Your natural smile that has been buried by the drugs and alcohol will start to shine through again. Your loved ones will be able to see that.
I remember when I came home for my first sober holiday and saw my family for the first time in almost a year. I knocked on my front door after getting a ride to my house, when my Mom answered the door and she saw my face, she knew that something had changed. There was just a mutual understanding and happiness that filled the air at that moment that I will never forget. It was perfect.
There maybe times when you are tempted to have a drink. During Thanksgiving dinner or at a toast at Christmas dinner, no matter when it is just remember that it’s not worth it. That one drink can cause a downward spiral to begin and you could be back at square one in no time.
The peace and joy you will bring to those around you after they see you resist drinks and temptation will be amazing. This is a great time to prove to them that you are back and here to stay. Their long restless nights wondering where you are and if you are ok should be a thing of the past.
Don’t worry guys, as time goes by it will become easier and easier to stay sober day by day. If you have a sober support group and a sponsor use them if you are feeling weak. Talking to a familiar voice that understands your struggles can help a lot. Sometimes can be more stressful than other times, but just know that you are worth it.
Some of us may have families that have problems with drugs and alcohol. You can be their motivation to change. After they see you with your life back together they may get that extra motivation needed to make the change.
If you need any support staying sober during the holidays feel free to reach out to Recovery Society. We will be more than happy to help you out through this tough situation.
