4 Ways To Resist Addiction During The Holidays

How To Resist Alcohol During A Holiday

Holidays are supposed to be fun and filled with merriment. But for some people, it's that time of the year when temptation is at its full force. For recovering addicts or those who are trying to overcome their active addiction, the holidays can be very stressful because of the possibility of destructive relapse. Here are some tips on how to enjoy the holidays with family and friends without surrendering to temptations.

1Identify Your Triggers

Unless you acknowledge what you are struggling with, you'll keep on going back to your destructive habits. You need to identify your stressors and figure out a way to overcome them. If the holidays make you depressed because you are alone or it reminds you of a loved one who recently passed away, then avoid everything that will be reminiscent of that situation. This is easier said than done, but at least you are making an effort to turn things around for the better.

2Avoid Alcohol Intake

If you are a recovering alcoholic, it's so easy to go back to your alcohol addiction during the holiday season because it is a social time of the year. People around you are drinking, and this can tempt you to take a sip of your favorite wine. If this happens to you, leave the party right away. Don't feel embarrassed that you left the party. Think about your progress and realize that it's better to stop and leave than stay and put yourself in danger.

3Try To Avoid Procrastination

Don't wait until New Year to quit your addiction. Setting a date (usually at the beginning of another year) is a classic mistake among people who are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. There is no better time to kick an addiction, but now.

You may prefer setting a goal to start quitting your addiction on a later date. But, the problem with waiting until the New Year is that you will feel like you are entitled to binge. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to get out.

4Talk To Someone You Trust

Talking to someone you trust can make your journey easier. Even if you have successfully overcome your addiction without the help of family and friends, it's still nice to have someone to talk to about your fears and frustrations. The holidays will be more challenging, and you may not be fully prepared to handle everything on your own. If you are not comfortable talking about your issues with family and friends, you can always seek the help of a professional counselor.

About Author

John Quintana

John Quintana is a proud Cuban, a lifelong resident of Miami, Florida, where he lives surrounded by a loving family. When he's not writing, he spends his time either fishing or in the kitchen.