GREENVILLE, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With the winter holidays and the accompanying pressures fast approaching, Crossroads Treatment Centers (Crossroads) is offering guidance on how individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) can stay healthy and enjoy the holidays.
“The holidays can be difficult for anyone for many reasons. For people in recovery, these challenges can be magnified,” said James Stephen, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Crossroads. “We want people to know that they don’t have to face these difficulties alone. There are strategies for making this time of year more manageable for people in recovery, and our Crossroads treatment teams and Patient Access Center are here to help.”
Holiday festivities and traditions often involve alcohol, which can be difficult to navigate for the over 48 million Americans with SUD and the 28.9 million with alcohol use disorder. The holidays can trigger financial stress, family tension, grief, loneliness and other factors that can heighten the risk of relapse.
To navigate the holidays, Crossroads prepared the following recommendations for those in recovery:
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Plan ahead. Before attending any holiday gatherings, determine in advance how to deal with potential triggers, such as politely declining offers of alcohol or drugs, bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages or having an exit plan if things get uncomfortable. You can also attend a support group meeting or call or visit a trusted friend for encouragement. You don’t have to attend every party you are invited to. Focus on the ones where you know you will have a positive experience surrounded by supportive people.
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Take Care of Your Physical and Mental Health. Exercising during the holiday season can be a great way to boost your endorphins and your mood. Exercising and spending time outdoors can help with both your physical and mental health. You can also practice gratitude, meditation or other coping skills that help you stay calm and positive.
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Remember H.A.L.T. (Hungry | Angry | Lonely | Tired) If you are hungry, eat. Try to aim for a healthy meal that will make you feel good about your choices. Sugary treats can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes which can then negatively affect your mood. If you are angry, talk with someone you trust or write your feelings in a journal. If you are lonely, attend a support group or see or call a non-judgmental friend. If you are tired, get plenty of sleep or schedule an afternoon nap, if needed.
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Focus on Your Recovery. What were your reasons for starting treatment? Think about those and how much you have accomplished. In addition to your reasons for avoiding drugs and alcohol, there are many benefits to a healthier lifestyle, including improved mood and self-esteem.
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Start New Traditions. The holidays are a time to celebrate and have fun, and you can do that without alcohol or drugs. You can create new holiday traditions that are meaningful and enjoyable for you, such as volunteering, baking, decorating, watching movies or playing games. You could build a snowman or go ice skating or have s’mores by the fire. You can also explore new hobbies or interests that enrich your life and keep you busy.
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Seek Support. You don’t have to go through the holidays alone. Reach out to your friends, family and community members who are supportive of your recovery. You can also find activities and events that are organized by recovery groups or organizations in your area. If you feel lonely or depressed, don’t hesitate to ask for help from a professional or a helpline.
- Give Back. This year and every year people are in need during the holidays. There are many ways to give back during the holidays that only cost your time. You can volunteer at a soup kitchen or a hospital, or deliver meals to those in need. There are many ways to volunteer, and volunteer organizations are always looking for extra help.
“It’s important to remember that no one should feel alone in their recovery, and there’s no shame in asking for help,” Dr. Stephen said. “Being prepared with strategies can make this time of year less overwhelming and more peaceful and positive.”
To learn more about Crossroads’ recovery services, visit Crossroads Treatment Centers Substance Use Disorder Treatment.
About Crossroads Treatment Centers
Since 2005, Crossroads has been at the forefront of treating patients with substance use disorder (SUD). Currently operating 100+ centers across nine states, we are a family of doctors, nurse practitioners, counselors and professionals dedicated to providing the most accessible and highest quality treatment options to combat the growing substance use epidemic. We create individualized treatment plans that use evidence-based medication-assisted treatment and behavioral health therapies to help those with SUD pave their paths to recovery. The outcomes are often lifesaving and lead to significantly improved lives for our patients, their families and their communities.
