The holiday season is a difficult time of year for a lot of us…especially for those who are struggling with addiction and recovery. Truth be told, most of us have work, family and financial pressures that can make it hard to maintain a stable frame of mind during this emotionally charged season. Don’t worry though! You’ve got this!

HERE ARE 5 HOLIDAY SANITY SURVIVAL TIPS TO NAVIGATE YOU INTO THE NEW YEAR

1.) SELF CARE

Your well-being starts with you! Do your best to eat and sleep well. Lack of sleep and inadequate nutrition in our diets can affect our mental health and ability to cope with challenges. Also, try to exercise, even if it’s a daily brisk walk. Moving our bodies is an excellent stress reliever and will burn off some of the extra calories we’re inevitably taking in.

2.) MINDFULNESS

Attempt to focus only on that which you have control. Let the rest go. Stay positive, pace yourself and remember that you are not alone. So many of us find this time challenging. Be aware of your limitations and triggers. Try to avoid them or have a plan to overcome them. Which leads us to…#3

3.) HAVE A PLAN

Try to anticipate the people and/or circumstances that will test you during the holidays and have the means to deal with them. When going to festive gatherings, for instance, bring a sober friend as a buffer and support. Try to limit your time in situations that would be high risk to your stability and create an exit strategy in the case circumstances become overwhelming.

4.) GIVE BACK

Sometimes the best way to cope is to put our focus on someone else. Look for ways to be of service to others: Serve a meal at a homeless shelter, a volunteer with a local charity or spend time with a neighbor who is confined. There are a million different ways to give back. Helping others is a great way to heal yourself.

5.) SEEK SUPPORT

Reach out for support. Attend extra counseling sessions or meetings if necessary. Ask counselors, sponsors, family, and friends to be aware of your needs during this time. Don’t be afraid, to be honest with yourself and others. Although admitting your vulnerability is difficult, there is a lot of strength in knowing when to ask for help!

If things don’t work out perfectly, don’t be hard on yourself!!! A set back does not mean you can’t keep moving forward, and we are always here to help. Freedom Healthcare Services offers compassionate, individualized treatment for addiction while seeking to encourage, educate, and empower. BEST WISHES FOR A HEALTHY, HAPPY HOLIDAY!