Christmas can be a challenging time for people in recovery: the regular routines that have been helping you in your journey can go out the window, more social events can mean more temptation or even isolation; and you can feel triggered by people or circumstances. Those in early recovery may be particularly vulnerable.
Frontline has put together some tips for helping you to enjoy Christmas in recovery.
FIRST CHRISTMAS IN RECOVERY
Over-indulgence has become such a big part of Christmas in recent times and the increased opportunities to socialise and overdo it during the festive season can mean that this time of year is particularly difficult for those in early recovery. The feeling of ‘missing out’ can be very strong.
- Have realistic expectations for how you will feel – acknowledge that this time of year may be hard for you.
- Stay connected with friends and family, as well your recovery community and let them know how you’re feeling.
- Remember that you don’t need to act on a thought or urge. You can acknowledge it, and then let it go. You are not weak for thinking about drinking or taking drugs – it is normal to do so.
PREPARATION
Make a relapse prevention plan so that you are prepared when you go out to social occasions – have a list in your mind about what you need to do to keep yourself safe.
Have a check in with yourself or with someone that you trust, around how you are feeling going into the holiday period.
Work out what you are going to be doing over the Christmas period – how will you be spending Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and St Stephens Day? Knowing this ahead of time can help you to avoid making impulsive or ill-judged decisions that you may regret.
Remember that triggers aren’t always around the substance, a trigger might be feeling isolated, it might be feeling let down or disregarded or we can have a lot of emotional triggers, not just ones directly related to the substance or behaviour, so it’s important to be aware of this.
TIPS TO AVOID A RELAPSE
- Remember that cravings will eventually pass – distraction helps.
- Relapse can happen years into your recovery, which is why it is so important not to become complacent – it probably won’t ever be safe to take drugs or drink again.
- Avoid situations that could put you at risk of a relapse.
- Practice Urge Surfing:
- Acknowledge you are having an urge
- Don’t suppress your thoughts and feelings – discomfort is normal
- Remind yourself that it is ok and normal to have urges – you don’t need to act on it
- An urge is temporary and will pass
CONNECTION & COMMUNICATION
Don’t isolate yourself. While Christmas can be a fun and busy time, it can also be lonely – don’t isolate yourself from your support network and family and friends. Let someone you trust know about your fears and worries.
Stay connected with your recovery community. Enjoy catch ups and celebrations with your family and friends but maintain your connection with your recovery community, through fellowship meetings and supports.
Have a support person that you can get in touch if you feel like you are struggling.
MIND YOURSELF
Routine is a very important part of recovery, and it can get completely disrupted over the holidays, with people off work, staying up later at night and lying in in the morning. Maintain habits such as your sleep routine and getting daily exercise.
If you decide not to attend a social occasion, try not to feel guilty – your recovery is the most important thing and should be the priority.
Have coping mechanisms for yourself to ensure that you are as safe as you can be over the holidays.
Don’t feel great about Christmas? Acknowledge those feelings and understand that Christmas isn’t a great time for everyone and that it can be a struggle to enjoy it.
FAMILY & FRIENDS OF PEOPLE IN RECOVERY
It is vital that family members and loved ones remember to look after themselves this Christmas and over the holidays. Setting boundaries and sticking to them is a great place to start.
SUPPORT SERVICES THAT ARE OPEN DURING CHRISTMAS
HARM REDUCTION SERVICES
ANA LIFFEY Ph: 087 7127059
MERCHANTS QUAY Ph: 01 524 0160
BALLYFERMOT ADVANCE PROJECT Ph: 01 623 8001
HSE OUTREACH WORKER (Derek/Paul) Ph: 086 604 1014
CRISIS HELPLINES
SAMARITANS Ph: 116 123
PIETA HOUSE Ph: 1800 247 247
EMERGENCY SERVICES Ph: 112 / 999
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