The unknowns of addiction can make enjoying the holidays a challenge for both the individual suffering and their loved ones. When the time comes to start inviting guests over for festivities, it can be difficult to know how to make the experience as comfortable as possible for a loved one battling addiction. Thankfully there are different approaches you can take to show support for them throughout the holiday season. Not only will it make it easier for everyone to enjoy themselves, but it could be a huge boost for them to seek out or continue treatment.
How To Help Them Safely Enjoy the Holidays
Many people facing addiction tend to self-isolate more often during the holidays, especially if they’ve been dealing with addiction for a long period of time. Make sure to involve them whenever possible in the festivities, but be careful not to force them to interact if they don’t seem like they’re in a good place to do so. Limiting the stress and maximizing the holiday spirit can help them forget about their addiction for a bit. When the holidays are spent isolated, many individuals in recovery have a higher risk of relapsing due to stress and anxiety.
It Takes a Little Effort From Everyone
Coming together for the holidays is always a time of love and support, and this includes our loved ones facing addiction this season. Help your friends and family, and yourself, learn what addiction is and how it impacts those afflicted with it. It can be difficult to see addiction from the inside as it already has a very real impact on those around the addicted person. Understand that your loved one may be a little more on edge or, on the other end of the spectrum, more gloomy but this doesn’t mean they aren’t trying to enjoy the festivities.
Find an Opportunity To Have a Private Conversation With Them
A little support can go a long way for someone recovering from addiction. Take a moment to pull them aside and genuinely check in on them and see how they’re doing. Don’t use this chance to cast blame on them or attempt to call them out on behavior. Instead, show compassion and understanding by lending them an ear to decompress with. If they don’t feel like they can go to anyone for help, their emotions can get bottled up and lead to them leaving to go be alone.
For friends or family not yet in recovery, this could be the time to show support and talk to them about seeking addiction treatment from a treatment center. Hickory Treatment Centers is here to help you or a loved one start the journey towards overcoming addiction. Whether it’s your first time through recovery or you need some extra support to get through the holidays, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
