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Even though the holidays are supposed to be merry and bright, for many Americans this time of year is filled with stress and struggles with addiction. Holidays, with all their activity, can put a lot of pressure on people. There is the issue of finances, especially this year, and the desire to get loved ones the presents they are really hoping for. Problems with family members or in-laws and the extra time spent together with them can cause stress. The list of things to do, and all the extra people and traffic at stores, the Christmas letters of those who seem to have it all together, and the cold, dreary weather – these all can become too much for any person to handle.
Struggling with Addiction
But what if someone is struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction at this time of year? How do they cope with all the pressures and stress and the realization that they are an addict? It can be a very lonely time for many, and the holidays can even drive them deeper into the addiction. Depression is common among alcoholics and addicts, and sometimes the feeling that they don’t care if they live or die, can lead them to some very reckless behavior.
It seems that many holiday parties have a large focus on alcohol. Maybe it’s because of the awkwardness that many people feel when attending a party with co-workers they are in competition with, or family parties with relatives they don’t get along with, or friends’ parties where they don’t know many people, but it seems that a lot of guests tend to consume large amounts of alcohol. We can only imagine what this does to a person already struggling with alcoholism.
What can you do?
Think of those that are struggling with drug addiction or alcoholism at this time of year. Even if they’ve wronged you in the past with their addiction, now may be the time to reach out and encourage them to get help. Families should spend more time together, building relationships, and supporting each other. Spending time playing games, or talking, or volunteering at a local charity can be ways to take one’s mind off of their problems.
Those planning holiday parties should be considerate of recovering alcoholics that may be attending. Offer attractive non-alcoholic drinks, limit the number of drinks available per person, or do away with the alcohol altogether. With a focus on a variety of foods or entertainment, the alcohol may not even be missed.
The person that is struggling with alcoholism at this time should be open about their feelings, and shouldn’t be ashamed to tell others why they are not drinking. Getting help for an addiction and being open about it takes a lot more courage than keeping up the destructive behavior. Families of addicts or alcoholics should seek help for their loved one and encourage them to stay sober, especially at this time of year.
Sources
Luby, Marie Battling Addiction During The Holidays Dec 3, 2008
Drug Addiction: Toll On Family During the Holidays 11/30/2008
