What goes on in your mind when you hear the term “sober Christmas”? Yes, it sounds a little unusual, but you can actualize it. You can enjoy sober living during this Christmas by staying drug- and alcohol-free. Individuals who are not in recovery may find the idea of maintaining a sober Christmas practical and easy to implement. But what about the person who is in recovery? For many in this situation, the mere thought of indulging in the festivities can trigger a relapse. However, a little bit of forethought and the regulation of your environment spending Christmas without relapse is a goal that is within your reach. The team of addiction specialists at our addiction treatment center in Meridian, ID, has compiled the following list of tips that can help you or the person struggling with addiction issues in your life maintain a sober Christmas.
Maintain a Sober Christmas by Avoiding Isolation
Isolating yourself during the festivities sounds like the perfect way to escape from all the temptations. No, it’s not. Isolating yourself may only heighten your anxiety and stress levels. The combination is the perfect recipe for triggering a relapse. Instead of isolating yourself:
- Take a walk outside and enjoy the scenery.
- Watch a movie with friends.
- Engage in some social activities, like cooking for the whole family.
- Take part in a group meditation exercise to kickstart your day.
Not every strategy will work for every person in recovery. But by participating in activities with members of your support network, you can avoid relapse and maintain your sobriety during the holidays.
Develop an Exit Strategy
You can decide to go out for the celebrations. However, the chances of getting exposed to drugs or alcohol in these social events are, unfortunately, high. Going in with a game plan can help you to avoid tempting or triggering situations.
Make sure that you can leave the event at any time if the pressure is overwhelming. An exit plan can be as simple as designating the driver. Make sure to surround yourself with peers who understand and can discourage you from drinking or using drugs.
Resolve to Stay Fit for Your Sober Christmas
Exercise enhances sober living by helping the body release toxic substances from drugs much faster. These routines will improve your sleep cycle. It is also possible that you’ll eat a lot of sugary foods such as cakes and pies during the holiday season. Exercising will burn excess calories and keep you in shape.
At the end of it all, working out will reduce drug and alcohol cravings. You’ll also be less affected by withdrawal symptoms like irritability and mood swings.
Sober Living at Zelus Recovery
Zelus Recovery focuses on teen recovery from drug use. Our addiction treatment staff is well versed in working with teens. Your young one will be under expert care as they get treatment for their condition. Our services conform to the evidence-based practices set in the industry.
Some of the services we offer include:
- Early intervention program: This module educates and supports teens with addiction issues. Addiction specialists hold therapy sessions with teens, allowing them to get to the root of their drug and alcohol use issues before they become more problematic.
- Intensive outpatient program: Patients deserve a chance to progress with their lives despite their addiction. Our IOP ensures your teen continues schooling or working while they get treatment.
- Relapse prevention services: Recovery on your own is tough. You might lose the resolve and give in to temptations. Relapse prevention services give you the support you need to achieve genuine, long-term recovery.
- Co-occurring disorders treatment: Drug use can lead to the development of mental health conditions and vice-versa. In the co-occurring disorders program, we treat addiction and the mental issues that fuel it — like depression, anxiety, and PTSD — simultaneously.
Reach Out to Zelus Recovery Today
Battling an addiction should not hold you back from enjoying the Christmas festivities. Zelus Recovery has flexible treatment modules. You can enjoy a sober Christmas with your family while getting treatment by scheduling appointments on days that fit your schedule. Alternatively, you can enroll in a full-time structured program that will put you on the path to recovery. Contact Zelus Recovery online today or call us at 208.518.0797 if you or someone close to you needs help.
