The holiday season is full of parties, celebrations, and good times with loved ones. However, to a person who is struggling to stop drinking, the holidays can be a minefield of triggers. On the other hand, the holidays can be the perfect time to step away from all the stress and really focus on your own wellness. Taking that time to seek treatment for alcohol addiction might be the best gift you will ever give yourself. If you or a loved one are considering entering an alcohol addiction treatment program, it can be helpful to know a few ins and outs of getting sober during the holiday season.
How Can I Avoid Drinking During the Holiday Season?
There are many pitfalls for someone who is trying to quit drinking alcohol during the holidays, but there are some strategies you can use to help you avoid triggering the urge to drink:
Talk to a Trusted Friend
Tell someone whose judgment you trust that you are trying to stop drinking. Ask them to help you stay accountable and avoid situations where you might become triggered to drink.
Practice Declining a Drink
Practice what you will say if offered alcohol. “No thanks, I’ve got some tea” works well, or “Oh, no, not drinking today, but thank you” is another helpful response.
Leave if You Need to
Give yourself permission to leave a situation if you are feeling pressured or tempted to drink. It is okay if others do not understand right now – it’s about you and your health.
Seek Treatment
Contact an alcohol addiction treatment center near you and find out how to get professional help to stop drinking. Multiple studies have shown that people who complete a treatment program have greater success maintaining sobriety over time.
I’m Not Sure If the Holidays Are the Right Time for Getting Sober
The right time for you to get sober is when you are finally ready to stop drinking. Some might find it a little strange to start treatment during the holiday season, but the absolute best gift you could ever give yourself is time. Having time to focus on your healing and sobriety can help you regain your joy. Additional strategies for maintaining holiday sobriety include:
Make Plans with People in Your Recovery Network
Instead of being triggered to drink during parties and get-togethers, you can immerse yourself in a supportive, encouraging environment centered on recovery.
Take Time Off Work
Many people take time off work during the holidays. You can use this time off for your own health and healing.
Commit to Change by Making a Big Change
If you decide it is time to stop drinking, then it’s time, no matter what time of year it is. Alcohol addiction is an illness, and you do not have to suffer with it forever. You can get treatment, help, and support that will let you re-learn how beautiful life can be.
Where Can I Find an Alcohol Addiction Rehab in New Hampshire?
Liberty Health Services, located just south of Manchester in the town of Derry, New Hampshire, is one of New England’s premiere alcohol addiction detox and treatment programs. We are a very small-scale facility, allowing us to offer individualized care that treats our clients and their families as well. We are strongly family-oriented because we know that for our clients to achieve success in their recovery, they will need a strong support network. Our caring, professional staff form another part of that support network, guiding and encouraging clients while providing the best medical and therapeutic care available.
If you or a loved one has been battling alcohol addiction, contact us today at 855.959.4521 and let us help you take the first step to your new life of recovery.
