The holiday season is just around the corner, and it can’t come soon enough for many people. For those recovering from a drug or alcohol addiction, this period can pose a few unique challenges. Luckily, it’s still possible to enjoy the upcoming weeks while maintaining your sobriety. The following guide offers some actionable, helpful tips to do just that. 

How to Manage the Holidays During Recovery

1. Utilize Your Resources

Although the holidays are known for spreading joy and cheer, there’s no denying that they can also illicit pressure. Whether it’s brought on by seasonal affective disorder, stress to find the perfect gift, or just an average case of the holiday blues, this period can be difficult for those who are newly sober. 

During this time, utilizing the resources available to you is crucial. When you’re struggling, reach out to loved ones to talk you through the episode, schedule televisits with your drug or alcohol addiction counselor, and attend virtual group sessions to alleviate some of the pressure that might otherwise cause you to falter in your sobriety. 

2. Find New Ways to Celebrate

Traditionally, people celebrate occasions like Christmas Eve or the countdown to New Year’s with a glass of wine or champagne. For those in recovery, though, this isn’t an option. Rather than feeling like you can’t celebrate at all, find a healthy replacement. This might be a sweet treat, a glass of sparkling cider, or playing a fun game.

3. Stick to Your Routine

Part of recovery means rebuilding your daily routine to be healthier and more mindful. During the holidays, it’s easy to fall victim to the desire to let loose and relax a bit. But your recovery is something you deserve, and you owe it to yourself to put the work in every day, whether that means exercising, reading religious scripture, doing something creative like writing, or meditating.

If you need help getting through the holiday season, turn to the compassionate team at The LCADA Way in Lorain, OH. Since 1981, this reputable nonprofit organization has provided clients throughout Erie, Lorain, and Medina counties as well as Wadsworth and the surrounding areas with top-quality mental health and counseling services for alcohol and drug addictions. They are open during this time providing both in-person and telehealth options.  They are offering group and individual telehealth counseling and following all CDC guidelines to protect staff and patients’ health during in-person counseling. Visit their website to learn more about what they do, and call (440) 989-4900 to speak with a team member.