If you are in recovery for addiction or substance abuse then Christmas and the year end holiday festivities are a time of temptation and often backsliding, but this does not have to be the case. You can enjoy the parties and family gatherings that are common during the holidays, without raising your relapse risks or falling back into your old ways. You can relax without indulging in alcohol or drugs, and a shopping addiction can be short circuited with certain methods and tactics that you can use. Eat as much as you want, but choose low calorie and low fat healthy options instead of the usual rich fare that is loaded with unwanted or unhealthy ingredients. Instead of sipping on bubbly substitute the alcoholic champagnes with ginger ale or sparkling water. Bring your own bag of fresh fruits and vegetables to snack on if you do not think there will be suitable food options.
There are many ways that you can make it through the Christmas holidays without relapsing, and the key component is to keep your stress at the lowest possible levels. Include plenty of physical activity and exercise, and make sure that you give yourself time to relax and recharge in between events. Remember the triggering emotions. If you are angry, depressed, tired, hungry, or are experiencing other negative emotions then you may want to consider calling and begging off. As long as you are rested, do not have a lot of stress, and are feeling positive then these parties can be a way to reinforce your new sobriety and addiction free life.
