For many families, the holidays are the main time to gather and celebrate together. Even those who are disjointed can find ways to celebrate and support each other during this season. These are beautiful traditions, but it comes with added stress and leads to potential triggers for addicts:

1. Changes in Normal Routine

During the crazy holiday schedule, established times for behaviors that support your sobriety may be disturbed, including attending meetings, getting adequate sleep, exercising or relaxing with loved ones. If you know your routine will be thrown off this holiday season, plan to schedule time for critical self-care.

2. Access to Alcohol and Other Substances

During the season of holiday parties and gatherings, alcohol is often accessible and readily enjoyed by those around you. Plan to avoid situations where there is pressure to partake in substances. For any gatherings you feel obligated to attend, consider reminding the organizer ahead of time that you are not drinking, or commit to bringing a friend who can double as an accountability partner.  If you are hosting a family member or loved one who is in recovery, try to consider their needs when planning.

3. Family Stressors

Your self-care throughout the year undoubtedly relies on surrounding yourself with positive support, while limiting time with those who cause you unnecessary stress. For some, family get-togethers can trigger unhappy memories of seasons past or an unpleasant encounter. Setting personal boundaries is essential to your recovery all year and the holidays are no exception. If seeing family is stressful for you, have a plan for how you will cope before, during and after the encounter.

4. Disruption in Treatment

For those struggling with addiction and co-occurring mental health issues, you deserve access to consistent quality mental health care throughout the year. However, you may find that during the holiday season it’s more difficult to get a timely appointment or a returned phone call from your provider. Missing routine appointments or medications that help regulate your mood is an unfortunate, common and preventable relapse trap. Plan by ensuring you have an adequate medication supply and consider attending a support group if your counselor or therapist is unavailable. Aim to also be aware of those treatment schedules for your family members when trying to coordinate holiday festivities.