How to stay sober during the festive season

JOHN W. BRAZZELL, M.D. - Volunteer Medical Consultant at Lifeline, Medical director at Kentucky Care, Paducah

From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, holiday festivities abound. Family dinners, Secret Santas, office parties and all the rest are meant to celebrate the glad tidings of the season, but the twinkling lights and bright tinsel cannot mask the stress for those dealing with addiction.

Lifeline medical consultant John W. Brazzell, M.D., describes the season well: “The holidays are packed with rituals and various events, during which the use of alcohol and drugs are commonly accepted,” he said.

Meanwhile, people struggling to stay sober may relapse if they don’t have a plan to deal with memories triggered by previous trauma or lost relationships, financial hardships or the hectic schedule of demands.

“Certainly, memories can be positive,” he said, “but some are reminders of lost loved ones, dysfunction or previous negative experiences.”

Focusing on the true joys of the season, including your faith and your circle of support, will help you put the other holiday demands or disappointments in perspective. And try making new sober memories by giving your time, talents or gifts to others – you will delight in the joy you give to them.

Rather than coping by using alcohol or drugs, Dr. Brazzell recommends the following tips to remain sober during the holidays:

Don’t use.

Ask for help.

Reach out to faith or recovery community ofsupporters.

Pray a lot, and stay connected with your Higher Power.

Meditate frequently.

Develop an exit plan from activities with potential exposure to drugs and alcohol.

Take your own festive holiday non-alcoholic drink to gatherings.

Follow your 12-step program faithfully during the holidays. (Lifeline Recovery Center offers the 12-step Celebrate Recovery Program.)