Holiday stress impacts the wellbeing of many people. For those who have an addiction and are in recovery, it can be even more difficult. If you are actively still using, you may even be at a heightened risk of overdoses. Learn how the holidays affect addiction, so you know what to expect and what to do when you need help. Compass Detox can be there to support you.
Why Holiday Stress Causes Difficulties for Many People
Whether you are actively using or in recovery, holiday stress can add a lot of complication to your life. When you see how holidays affect addiction, you can see that you’re not alone in this process of getting help. Here are a few examples.
- Holidays add stress to an already complicated life.
- You have more to do, and being too busy may limit your focus on your recovery.
- Holidays bring people into your life who may cause frustrations.
- Past trauma from holiday experiences may pressure you.
- Past experiences from holidays may tempt you to use them again.
Are you facing this type of stress in your life? The holiday stress you feel can be powerful, but it should not limit your overall health and wellbeing if you get the support you need.
How Holidays Effect Addiction Really Depends on You
An important thing to remember is that you remain in control over what happens to you during the holidays and with your recovery. For example, you may be putting too much pressure on yourself at this point. Are you doing too much or trying to make everything perfect for everyone? That is going to be too much pressure.
Another thing to look at is your expectations. If you are expecting that perfect holiday experience without struggle, you could be in for a problem. What’s most important here is to understand that you can control what happens during the holidays by simply being realistic.
If your recovery is on the line due to being around people, places, or things that are challenging for you, step away. Say no. Most importantly, make sure that holiday stress does not become more important in your health and wellbeing that it overshadows your ability to remain sober.
Invest in Your Future Now
Holiday stress can feel overwhelming to everyone, but you can combat that with a bit of help. First, work to actively keep your stress under control by investing in fun activities and simply not trying to do so much. This is important, especially in your first year after no longer using. You need time to heal and rebuild new memories that are positive experiences.
Second, don’t put your drug and alcohol therapy on the line. If you are at risk of using or you are using, reach out for comprehensive help. This may mean going to your recovery meetings and talking to your mentor more often. For other people, it means coming in for professional help and support. We can help you with this at Compass Detox. Our therapy programs are designed for stressful times. We offer a wide range of programs to support you every step of the way, including:
- Intensive outpatient program
- Partial hospitalization program
- Medication-assisted treatment programs
- Wellness therapy and programs
- Detox recovery center
Don’t Wait to Call Compass Detox When You Need Help
Holiday stress can feel so overwhelming that you’re just unsure how to handle it. That’s okay. Recognizing how holidays affect addiction is important for you as you work on your sobriety. Yet, you do not have to do this on your own. With help from our compassionate counselors at Compass Detox, you can feel empowered to stay on the right course. Reach out to us at 855.526.4915 or contact us online to learn more.
