A Sober Christmas: A Gift to Yourself

Could sobriety be the most meaningful gift you could give yourself this year?

The Christmas season is a time of celebration and joy, however, for those struggling with mental health issues or addiction, it can be a difficult time. With all the festivities, it can be tempting to fall back into old habits or to turn to alcohol and drugs as a way of coping.

One of the main reasons why people drink and take drugs more around Christmas is due to the pressure of the Christmas season. People often feel overwhelmed with the expectations that come with the holidays, such as buying gifts, attending parties, and spending time with family. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression, which in turn can lead to increased drinking and drug use as a way to cope.

This Christmas, there’s a gift you can give yourself – a sober Christmas. By choosing to stay sober, you can avoid the shame, regret and guilt that can come with drinking or using drugs. Plus, you’ll be in a better position to enjoy the true spirit of Christmas.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

It’s important to remember that you don’t have to go through this alone. If you’re experiencing difficulty with poor mental health or addiction, there’s help available. Steps Together Group provide a collection of Private Residential and Non-Residential treatment services that support individuals, families, employers and communities who are experiencing difficulty with, or affected by, the devastating impact that addiction or poor mental health has on their lives and wellbeing.

Residential rehabilitation can be a very effective way for an individual to achieve sobriety. With the help of healthcare professionals, counsellors, and therapists, an individual can learn how to understand and cope with their addiction and develop healthier coping skills. With continued support of client aftercare, the individual can maintain their sobriety and begin to rebuild their life. Find our more here. 

Navigate Christmas Triggers and Stay Sober

At Christmas, it can be hard to stay away from triggers that could lead to drinking or using drugs. To make things easier, plan ahead. Have a strategy in place for how you’re going to cope with potentially triggering situations. Have a list of activities or people to contact if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

You may have many years in recovery or have just become sober, either way, the Christmas can be a difficult time. It is important to be aware of the triggers that can lead to relapse. Here are some tips to help maintain sobriety during the holidays:

• Have an accountability partner. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a professional, having someone who can help you stay accountable can be invaluable. This person can help remind you of your goals and provide support when you need it.
• Make a plan. Before you enter any social situations, plan how you’re going to stay sober. Have a few strategies in place, excusing yourself to take a walk, or even just leaving early.
• Stay busy. Have a few activities planned that will keep you busy and away from alcohol. Go for a walk, watch a movie, or read a book. Having something to do will help you stay focused on your goal of sobriety.
• Be kind to yourself. If you do slip up, don’t beat yourself up. Forgive yourself and get back on track.
• Seek help. If you’re struggling to stay sober, don’t be ashamed to ask for support. There are lots of resources available to help you manage your alcohol intake.

It’s also a good idea to have a plan for how you’re going to say no to alcohol and drugs. Be prepared with a polite but firm response for when someone offers you a drink. Practice saying no in advance and be confident in your decision!

The Joys of Sobriety

Sobriety isn’t just a way to break free from the chains of addiction; it’s an opportunity to start living the life you’ve always wanted. When you’re sober, you have the clarity and focus to make positive changes in your life. You can discover new passions, take up hobbies, and pursue goals you may have given up on. You can also create meaningful relationships and build a strong support system.

The holidays can be difficult for those in recovery, but there are also many benefits to sobriety. You can enjoy the festivities without the worry of overindulging or being tempted to drink. You’ll also have more energy to spend with family and friends, and you can be present in conversations and special moments. Plus, when you’re sober, you’ll have the freedom to make conscious decisions and create positive memories.

The gift of sobriety is something that must be earned. But with the right support and dedication to recovery, it’s something that can be achieved. This Christmas, give yourself the greatest gift of all, the gift of sobriety!

Where Can I Get Help?

• Alcoholics Anonymous – People go to Alcoholics Anonymous through many different ways. Choose the path that best suits you. Find out more and get help now.
• Narcotics Anonymous UK – Narcotics Anonymous in the United Kingdom & Channel Islands. If you have a problem with drugs, NA are recovering drug addicts who can help you get and stay clean.
• Talk to Frank – Find out everything you need to know about drugs, their effects and the law. Talk to Frank for facts, support and advice on drugs and alcohol today.
• Mind – Drug and Alcohol Addiction, useful contacts.
• Young Minds – Read a guide for the facts on drugs and alcohol, how they can affect your mental health, and advice on what to do if you need support.
• Alcohol Change – If you’re worried that you’re drinking too much, there’s support available. Find out about your options.

By taking these steps to enjoy a sober Christmas, you’ll be taking the first step on the path to recovery. So, don’t wait until after Christmas, get support now and join us to the path of recovery. Be sober this Christmas and make it a gift for yourself.  For a FREE and confidential discussion with one of our treatment advisors at Steps Together please call 0330 175 7031 today, or visit www.stepstogether.co.uk to further information.