Alcoholism is a serious problem that affects over 29 million Americans over the age of 12. They struggle with it throughout the year, but Christmas can be especially challenging.
Addiction is a serious disease. Unfortunately, it doesn’t go away during the holidays.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but for many people Christmas can be a struggle. With Christmas parties galore, family and friends catch-ups and alcohol on just about every shelf in a supermarket, it can be a difficult time for those suffering from alcohol addiction, or those simply wanting to get through the festive period without drinking.
Alcohol can cause serious problems at this time of year, not just for those suffering with alcohol addiction and in recovery. According to Banbury Lodge, an Alcohol and drug rehabilitation centre in Oxford, uring a period where emotions and stress are heightened, alcohol can fuel fires and cause plenty of problems. Which nobody wants during a time that is meant to celebrate togetherness.
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The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has highlighted some of the key challenges that people face during the holidays. You need to be aware of these issues so you can plan to maintain your sobriety.
So, as we get closer to Christmas and the few weeks around it where there’s lots going on, here are five top tips for getting you through it sober…
Plan ahead and raise awareness of your sobriety
Now, we’re not saying you need to be making announcements on social media or anything like that, but it can be worth letting people know that you aren’t drinking and you would appreciate their understanding.
This will eliminate any kind of pressure into drinking and give you a level of support from them, whether it be family members, friends or colleagues at a work’s Christmas party. They should also be aware of your alcohol triggers to help avoid them.
What’s more, planning can be really important. Think about things such as an exit strategy if it does get too much for you as it can be a difficult time, and temptation can creep in at any time.
Build your support network
Alongside the support you may get by taking the above approach, it is so important to have a support network around you, not just at Christmas time, but always. However, they can come in especially handy at this time of year.
You’ll be able to lean on them whenever you need, as well as discuss things like coping mechanisms and just how you are feeling. Opening up about sobriety can be hugely valuable and help keep you on track.
Hold events that don’t require alcohol
If you’re in a position where you can have a say on events, or pick and choose the events you do go to, then look at doing activities that don’t require alcohol. There are tons of great celebration ideas that don’t revolve around alcohol these days from crafting to volunteering, to enjoying a nice winter hike or stroll.
Alternatively, if you aren’t quite in control of what you do, particularly when it comes to work events, don’t be afraid to sit it out if you do believe it could be too much for you. Perhaps organise something alternative on a different date to celebrate with your closest colleagues.
Keep busy
Ultimately, keeping busy can go a long way to steering clear of temptation. Be the person who offers to make Christmas dinner or do the driving. Offer to keep the kids entertained with crafts and games.
By keeping your brain stimulated as well as making yourself useful, you’ll have that sense of purpose, as well as ensuring you don’t really think about alcohol too much, even if it is in the vacinity.
Bring non-alcoholic alternatives
What can often cause problems is turning up to a party and there being no real non-alcoholic alternatives. You don’t want to spend your evening drinking tap water, so bring something along with you. There are some fantastic non-alcholic beers, cocktails and even spirits these days that many people who are sober are turning to.
It’ll not only mean you get something nice to drink, it’ll also allow you to fit in more and potentially avoid any of those awkward questions as to why you aren’t drinking.
It’s never an easy period of time to get through for those who do have alcohol problems, but by being open and having support around you, it still can be a very happy Christmas, and a much better one than if you were drinking alcohol.
