The holidays are all about traditions – whether it’s putting up the same decorations you’ve had since childhood, family recipes passed down through the generations or favorite movies that help you get in the spirit. When you were actively drinking and using drugs, you may have had many traditions that revolved around substance misuse, as well. Now that you’re sober, you may find yourself at a loss for how to find your place in the festivities without losing sight of your goals. 

To help you get started, here are a few ideas for healthy new ways to replace your self-destructive former habits. 

1. Redefine What the Holiday Season Means to You

Too often, people lose sight of what the holidays should be about: togetherness, gratitude and time to count the blessings in your life. Instead, everyone gets wrapped up in family drama, financial stress and subconscious pressure from retailers telling them to buy more, more, more. 

Step back and take a moment to focus on how you want to spend your holidays in sobriety. For example, instead of trying to outdo each other with lavish or expensive gifts, agree with your family that you will all donate to the charities of each other’s choice. When you reframe your definition of the holidays, you can make them about thankfulness, instead of excessive spending and wasteful consumerism. 

2. Strip Down Your Celebrations

Back when you were letting your addiction rule your life, you may have loved the frenzied social whirl that can often characterize the holiday season. You never turned down an opportunity to celebrate, and you considered yourself the life of any party. However, looking back, you now realize you were using these gatherings as an excuse to drink and use drugs to excess. 

Now that you are sober, you might find the idea of a large party intimidating. Social settings can offer a series of triggers and pitfalls for people trying to avoid a relapse. No matter how “cured” you think you are, seeing your former drinking or drug buddies all in one place could set off a cascade of thoughts, feelings and decisions that pave the way for a relapse. To be on the safe side, host an annual pared-down sober shindig where you can tightly control all the circumstances, including the menu and the guest list.

3. Be Thankful for Your Loved Ones

We often get too busy to tell our friends and family members how lucky we feel to have them in our lives, especially when we get caught up in the holiday hubbub. This year, start a new holiday tradition where you and your family and friends go around the dinner table and sincerely compliment each other’s admirable qualities. The act of giving and receiving praise can make everyone feel more loved and appreciated, and help everyone’s holidays shine more brightly.

Your Future Is in Your Hands

The holiday season can present unique challenges for any recovering addict, whether you have been sober for five months or five years. The key is to know your triggers, stay true to yourself and avoid people, places and situations that might threaten your sobriety. 

If you’re looking for a place to start healing yourself mentally, spiritually and emotionally from the ravages of drug and alcohol misuse, learn more about what we offer at Canyon Crossing, then contact us to explore our women’s-only addiction treatment solutions.