Thanksgiving is a wonderful occasion for sharing gratitude and cherishing our connections with loved ones. Yet, it can also present some special hurdles for those on the path of recovery. Family get-togethers, the bustle of holiday preparations, and social expectations can make it more challenging to resist the urge to turn to substances.
At 12 South Recovery, we understand how difficult this time can be for those overcoming addiction, and we’re here to support you. You can stay strong and focused on your recovery goals by using a few practical strategies. We provide essential tips to help you avoid relapse and make the most of Thanksgiving.
Plan to Strengthen Your Resolve
Identify Potential Triggers: Consider certain experiences, locations, or individuals that might expose you. Recognizing these triggers can help you prepare for them and determine how you’d like to react.
Establish a Plan for Social Events: Let’s talk about how you can enjoy gatherings by thinking about who you’ll connect with and what you might do if you start to feel a bit out of sorts. Having a little plan in place can help you feel more at ease and bring a sense of confidence as you take on the day.
Set Personal Boundaries: Don’t be afraid to say “no” to events or interactions that might threaten your sobriety. Letting friends and family know your boundaries beforehand can help you avoid uncomfortable situations and stay committed to your recovery.
Let’s Keep in Touch with Our Support Network
Lean on Sober Friends and Mentors: Being around supportive and sober friends can brighten your Thanksgiving experience. Whether it’s a buddy in recovery or a trusted mentor, having someone to share your thoughts with can help you feel anchored.
Use 12 South Recovery’s Alumni Programs: Utilize the alum programs we offer to connect with people who recognize and empathize with your challenges. Remaining engaged with a recovery community can provide valuable reassurance and encouragement.
Attend Meetings and Check-Ins: During the holiday season, many recovery groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) host special meetings you can participate in. Joining these virtual gatherings can be a wonderful way to connect with others on their journey to sobriety during Thanksgiving.
Embrace Self-Care and Banish Stress
Mindfulness Techniques: Exploring mindfulness practices like deep breathing and meditation can be a wonderful way to feel more centered and help melt away any stress you may be carrying. When you embrace mindfulness, it becomes a lovely path to highlight gratitude and savor the brighter moments along your journey to recovery.
Incorporate Physical Activity: Staying active can lift your spirits and help melt away stress. Why not add joy to your Thanksgiving plans by including activities like a lovely walk or calming yoga?
Create Joyful Thanksgiving Traditions Together
Plan Sober-Friendly Activities: Engage in meaningful activities that don’t involve substances, such as cooking, playing games, or watching movies with family. Creating positive holiday memories can reinforce your commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
Express Gratitude: Thanksgiving is a wonderful opportunity to express gratitude and a beautiful way to acknowledge your progress in your recovery journey. Set aside time to think about all the things you appreciate and joyfully celebrate the steps you’ve taken along the way.
Volunteer or Give Back: Lending a hand to others can bring so much joy and a wonderful sense of purpose to our lives. Volunteering during Thanksgiving is a beautiful way to take a break from our worries and truly soak in the spirit of giving, creating a heartwarming experience for you and those you support.
Embracing Uplifting Coping Strategies
Avoid the “Just One” Mentality: A single drink or a moment of weakness can set off a chain of events. Stay connected to the beautiful reasons you’ve chosen sobriety, and take a moment to reflect on why living a clean life brings so much joy and fulfillment.
Uplifting Coping Strategies: Make sure to carve out time for activities that spark joy and help you unwind, like cozying up with a good book, diving into a fun craft project, or enjoying the great outdoors. Engaging in these fulfilling hobbies can be a wonderful way to keep your mind focused and easily navigate cravings or stress.
Prepare Healthy Distractions: Whenever the urge hits, it’s lovely to have a cozy list of favorite distractions right at hand! You might enjoy taking a pleasant stroll, rocking out to your favorite songs, or chatting with a friend who always knows how to brighten your day.
Professional Support to Lean On
Therapy Sessions: During the holiday season, therapy sessions can be like a warm hug, offering a comforting space to find support. Sharing your dreams, challenges, and emotions with a therapist can be such a rewarding experience, offering you beautiful insights and helping you gather the tools you need to feel balanced and centered in life.
Relapse Prevention Strategies: Take some time to reflect on your relapse prevention plan and consider how you will adapt it for Thanksgiving. The more thought you put into this, the more secure and serene you will be on this day of festivity.
Crisis Resources: If at any point you become overwhelmed, remember that crisis resources are available. Call the caring team at 12 South Recovery today to get the help and support you need anytime.
Call Us for Tips
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a source of stress or a risk to your sobriety. By planning, leaning on your support systems, and focusing on self-care, you can enjoy a safe, sober, and fulfilling holiday. At 12 South Recovery, we provide a range of tools and resources to help you maintain your sobriety during challenging times.
If you or a loved one needs support, please contact us to explore our comprehensive treatment options. We offer individualized therapy, relapse prevention, and aftercare programs. This Thanksgiving can be a time to celebrate your progress and dedication to a healthy and fulfilling life in recovery.
