For many people struggling with addiction or substance abuse disorder, the holidays are a difficult time. Alcohol has become almost synonymous with Christmas for some, and sobriety during holiday events can feel like a chore. However, living a sober lifestyle does not mean that you can’t enjoy the season and have a happy and fulfilling Christmas. Even if your friends and family drink to excess during the holidays, remember that many people, from those in sober living homes to those that haven’t touched alcohol in decades, are in the same position you are.
If Christmas exacerbates a drinking problem that you’d like to learn to control, reach out to Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach today. Our top-of-the-line facilities are equipped with everything we need to assist you in your journey to fight your substance abuse disorder, including alcohol dependency. We have various programs that can be catered to suit our client’s unique needs and a highly-trained staff that loves to watch you succeed. If you think that you or a loved one could benefit from a treatment program at Oceanfront Recovery, don’t hesitate. Reach out today by calling 877.296.7477 or by visiting us online.
Tips for Enjoying a Sober Christmas
A sober Christmas season doesn’t mean that it will be less fulfilling. Parts of society may treat holidays as excuses to binge drink, but Christmas is about spending time with the people you love. Here are some ways to make sure your holiday stays sober and enjoyable:
- Make your sobriety a priority. Don’t give yourself the room to break your own rules. If you tell yourself that you “might” have one drink, you’re positioning yourself for failure. It will be easier to abstain if you actively decide that you won’t be drinking at holiday events.
- Practice ahead of time. When going to Christmas parties and family gatherings, you may be offered alcohol. It’s a good idea to plan your response before those offers start. Think of a good short answer; you don’t need to volunteer any information about a drinking problem. “I’m driving” or “No thanks, my stomach has been sensitive” are valid responses. Practice in the mirror or the car on the way there.
- Bring your own. Don’t doom yourself to sipping tap water all night at a party where everyone else has a cocktail. Bring something non-alcoholic for yourself, just like you would if you were drinking alcohol.
- Don’t be afraid to step back. If you need to remove yourself from a situation to stay safe and sober, that’s okay. Take a walk or go to another room. You’re allowed to take care of yourself, and you shouldn’t feel guilty.
Drinking Problems and the Holidays
Alcohol doesn’t have a season, but many people place it front and center during the winter holidays. From eggnog to spiced cider, people worldwide add extra alcohol to their lifestyles come December. It’s no surprise, then, those alcohol-related traffic accidents rise as well.
Most people could stand to pay extra attention to their alcohol consumption during Christmas; it’s helpful to pay attention to how you use any substance, and you may discover that you’re overdoing it. Even people who don’t live sober lifestyles might benefit from celebrating a sober Christmas.
Find Out More About Alcohol Addiction Recovery in Laguna Beach at Oceanfront Recovery
Oceanfront Recovery’s alcohol addiction treatment programs can help anyone begin healing from a drinking problem. With our customized programs, we can give you a better shot at a lasting recovery. For more information about what we can do for you, call us at 877.296.7477 or visit us online to complete our secure online form.
