Thanksgiving is a time for celebration and spending time with loved ones. However, if a sober Thanksgiving is something you have not enjoyed in the past recent years, you may find this year a bit challenging. The holiday season often comes with stress, temptations, and triggers, all of which can lead to relapse.
If you are going to enjoy Thanksgiving this year free of alcohol or drugs, then you need to get proactive and prepare yourself for the holidays. There are several things you can do to stay connected with your support system and avoid your triggers. Let’s take a look at how you can enjoy a sober Thanksgiving this year.
Reach Out to Your Support Network
No matter where you are during the holidays, you’re never too far from someone who is willing to help you stay clean. Your therapist, accountability partner, mentor, family, and friends can help you stay on the path to recovery. You can reach out to them when you are feeling tempted to take drugs or drink alcohol.
Make sure you have those contacts in your phone for quick access. Also, talk to your support network in advance and let them know your plans. Make sure they are available to help you when you are struggling. With a strong support network, you can have the strength to enjoy the holiday.
Find a Support Group During the Holidays
One of the best things about support groups is that there is one available almost any time of the day throughout the holidays. Whether you are staying in town or traveling during Thanksgiving, a support group, AA group, or 12-step program is nearby. So, before you start your holiday or hit the road, find support groups in your area.
Ask your therapist or addiction treatment center in Asheville, NC, for resources to the nearest support group. They can help you get connected with a group that meets your needs. You may also want to get the contact number of a member of the group.
Know & Avoid Your Triggers
Maintaining sobriety may mean that you have to say no to an invitation this year. Sure, its friends and family. However, if alcohol or drugs will be present at the holiday celebration, it may present more temptation than you can handle. You may also need to avoid certain people and places around town.
Something else to consider: triggers are not always obvious. For instance, it is not uncommon to feel lonely or anxious during the holidays. Anxiety or other disorders can often lead to relapse. So, make sure you know your triggers or the things that will lead to a relapse. Avoiding your triggers can promote a sober Thanksgiving and holiday season.
Get in the Right Frame of Mind
Holidays can often bring up painful memories of your past. You may even feel guilty for things you were not proud of last Thanksgiving. However, this is a new year and a new you. If you are going to have a sober Thanksgiving, then you need to stay present and have a positive mindset.
Go into the holiday with a positive mindset and willingness to make this year better than the last. Remember what you have learned during your addiction therapy sessions and in holistic therapy.
Need Help This Holiday? Call Red Oak Recovery®
If you are struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, we can help. Red Oak Recovery® offers comprehensive treatment for substance use. To find out more about our services, call us at 866.457.7590. We are here to help you have a sober Thanksgiving!
