The holidays can be one of the most difficult times for those in recovery. Despite this, having a sober Thanksgiving is possible. Setting boundaries, creating a solid support network, and handling triggers can all go a long way in helping you enjoy a peaceful holiday season.
Sober Thanksgiving and Its Difficulties
Although feelings of joy and celebration usually mark the holiday season, that’s not always the case for those in recovery. It’s no secret that the holiday season, including Thanksgiving, can be a very difficult time for those trying to avoid substances. Substances like alcohol are usually present at holiday gatherings. The holidays can also be stressful for those who aren’t close to their families, leaving them feeling sad, alone, or depressed.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “This time of year can also trigger difficult emotions, thoughts, or behaviors.” These triggers can, in turn, affect your mental health and ability to avoid using substances.
SAMHSA has a 24/7 helpline for anyone feeling extra stressed during the holiday season. This resource can help you talk out your feelings and fears. Those at the helpline can also help you remember your goals and why you’re choosing to stay sober during this time.
Sober Thanksgiving Activities
One of the best plans of action for creating a sober Thanksgiving is to plan ahead. Outpatient groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) will often plan parties and events, but you have many other options as well.
Creating Your Own Sober Thanksgiving
If you enjoy cooking, this year may be a good chance to try your hand at hosting a sober party. You can invite family and friends who you know will support you and help you enjoy the holiday without substances like alcohol. Thanksgiving is really about the food and family anyway!
If you choose to attend Thanksgiving at someone else’s home, it’s important to ask ahead of time if there will be alcohol or other substances present. There is no shame in asking this question; in fact, a simple question like this will put the power and confidence back into your own hands. This is how you learn to make empowering life decisions that support your physical and mental health and stick to your goals.
Enjoying Holiday Crafts and Events
The holidays are filled with festive events for people of all ages. You can look at your local library calendar, newspaper, or bulletin boards to find events that may interest you.
From pie-baking competitions to apple picking to arts and crafts fairs and so much more, there is truly something for everyone this time of year. Even better, nearly all of these options are completely sober activities.
Handling Holiday Triggers
Even though you can participate in myriad holiday events, dealing with triggers is still a very real part of the process.
The holidays can be periods of great risk when it comes to substance abuse. Dr. Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), explains that “one of the factors that leads to drug-taking and to escalation of drug-taking, and to relapse, is stress.” Since the holidays can be a time of heightened stress, it’s more important than ever to be aware of your triggers and stay firm about your boundaries.
Creating a Solid Support Network
Most of us would like to think of our families as strong support networks for recovery. Unfortunately, the reality is often the complete opposite. This is why it’s more important than ever to define strong boundaries around the holidays, especially around the people you choose to surround yourself with.
Solid support networks from peer groups, recovery programs, and even new friends you meet doing sober activities can all help you feel more empowered during this time.
You likely also have family members who really do care about your overall well-being. Talk to them and let them know what you will or will not tolerate when it comes to Thanksgiving parties, gatherings, or any other social events during the holiday season. Being honest will help you maintain strong boundaries and a sense of confidence as you move forward in your journey of recovery.
Finding Support for a Sober Thanksgiving at The Guest House
One of the best ways to ensure a sober, peaceful, and exciting Thanksgiving is to join us at The Guest House. Here, we understand how important it is to protect your sobriety during the holidays. Both our residential and outpatient programs provide excellent networks to help you overcome triggers and maintain your goals in a safe and supportive environment.
Here, you will feel a lot less lonely during the holiday season. You’ll be surrounded by a network of professionals and peers who not only understand your struggles but are here to give you unconditional support. We also offer a wide variety of both traditional and holistic therapies to help you discover new interests and hobbies as you rediscover the simple joys of life.
No matter what brings you through our doors, there is a place for you to belong here at The Guest House.
The holiday season can be difficult for anyone. For those in recovery, however, this season may seem downright impossible. The good news is that a sober Thanksgiving can happen with the right tools and mindset. Here at The Guest House, we offer you a strong support system to help you overcome your triggers and maintain strong boundaries, especially around the holiday season. Both our residential and outpatient programs will make you feel at home, allowing you to discover exciting new hobbies, therapies, and tools to help you overcome substance use disorder (SUD) and find long-lasting success and well-being. For more information about our programs and how we can support you, give us a call today at (855) 483-7800.