It can feel like the pressure is on around the Holidays. For many of us who struggle with addiction, it is especially important to know how to navigate all the intense feelings this time of year can stir up. Below are a few coping skills that give you the tools to stay upbeat and emotionally safe this holiday season.
Tools for coping…
1. Reaching out to people and strengthening bonds.
This is a perfect time to go through your address book and touch base with people you haven’t spoken to in a while. If you don’t know how to start the conversation, just say something simple like, “I was thinking about you and wanted to see how you are doing?” This is a great way to feel more connected.
2. Cultivate feelings of gratitude.
This is a great antidote for feelings of lack that can arise this time of year. It is hard to focus on how much you have and how much you don’t at the same time. Shift your perspective, and spend some time looking at your life and the things around you that you appreciate. Get positive momentum going by noticing what you have to be thankful for.
3. Volunteer for a meaningful cause.
One way to feel less lonely is to spend time working for a cause that you believe in. The best way to get out of our heads and into right action is through service to others. Helping to serve food, working to make sure people have a warm place to sleep, or giving gifts to families in need helps remind us we are here to be of maximum benefits to others.
4. Self Care.
Taking special care of yourself and making sure you are managing your stress and anxiety well is very important. Nothing extravagant required! Take a bath, read a book, listen to some cheerful music is all it takes to unwind and relax.
5. Talking to others about how you feel.
Sharing your thoughts will help you process feelings of loneliness. You will realize that you are not alone and that nothing in the universe is happening in isolation. Loneliness is a feeling many people share around this time of year. Often we think we are the only ones feeling a certain way. Opening up to others closes the gap and helps dissolve feelings of separation.
6. Rethink your expectations.
There is a common saying in Alcoholics Anonymous that expectations are resentments waiting to happen. Social media, movies, advertisements set up an idea of what the perfect holiday season is about. Who can possibly live up to this? When spending time with our family and friends ends up being less than perfect, we can spiral into depression and loneliness. We each need to rethink the expectations society has for the holidays and realize that when things don’t go as planned, it doesn’t mean they are wrong.
7. Routine.
Going to meetings, talking to your sponsor, working with others, and connecting with your Higher Power is a daily practice. When the holidays roll around it can disrupt our schedule. Make sure to keep doing the things that keep you pointed in the right direction. It is important to go to bed around the same time and wake up at the same time you usually do. This keeps your mood well balanced. Remember not to deviate too much from your routine so you don’t lose your footing.
Easy does it
Give yourself a little grace; this is a very difficult time of year and the pressure can be overwhelming.
The holidays are full of triggers, and very often we addicts and alcoholics struggle to handle complex emotions.
If you fall you can always get back up, and that is why The Haven Admissions Team would like you to know we are here for you.
We’ve been exactly where you, and we know how to help you get better.
