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At this time of year, it can be difficult for recovering alcoholics to maintain the willpower to remain sober. Christmas is associated with parties and alcohol drinking, so it is natural to fear that your resolve will falter. It is a particularly tricky time for recovering alcoholics; on the one hand, they will want to enjoy the festivities just as anyone else, but may feel unable to do so without a drink in hand. Staying sober over the Christmas period could be the biggest battle faced during sobriety.
Similarly, people who are dieting also find it difficult at this time of year, as they will be trying to stick to their healthy eating regimens while being faced with the many temptations Yuletide throws at them. Recovering alcoholics and dieters will find Christmas tough but there are ways to get through this joyful time of the year without feeling miserable or falling off the wagon.
Think Positively
It is worth thinking of the festivities as a time to spend with loved ones. Remembering how difficult life was for those loved ones during periods of heavy drinking and when you were at your lowest is a good motivator for staying sober. For recovering alcoholics, a life without alcohol is, ultimately, the main goal, so thinking about the health benefits is another good motivator. As well as this, think about how happy your loved ones have been since you stopped drinking alcohol; this should also be a great motivator.
Continue Attending Your Meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings can be extremely helpful to recovering alcoholics at any time of the year so maybe attending over the Christmas period can keep you focussed on the positive. When your resolve is low, an AA meeting can be particularly useful; so no matter how busy life gets, these meetings should not be neglected.
Take a Sober Companion to Parties
Parties can be a minefield for recovering alcoholics due to the amount of alcohol available. As everyone else gets merry, it can become quite difficult to keep to the plan. However, taking a sober companion along for company will allow you to support each other through this difficult period. This is especially helpful for newly recovering alcoholics. After attending a few parties and staying sober, it becomes easier.
Try to Enjoy This Time of Year
Although there will be many events and parties over the holiday period, there is also plenty of other enjoyable things to do that do not involve alcohol. Going ice-skating or to the cinema to see a new release is a great way to have fun without having a drink. Playing board games with the family can also be enjoyable.
Talk to Someone
Talking to someone who understands the situation is a good idea; at Rehab Helper, we are here if you need us. If you just need someone to talk to or if you want some advice about staying on track, do not hesitate to get in touch. We are waiting for your call.
