Should I Go Home for the Holidays?
Should I Go Home for the Holidays?
The holiday season can be a time both for joy and anxiety. The idea of shopping for gifts, visiting family, traveling, and more can feel overwhelming. This can be multiplied for those in early sobriety.
You may be newly sober and wondering if it’s a good idea to go home for the holidays. The truth is, there isn’t a cut-and-dry answer…
Should I Go Home for the Holidays? A Few Things to Consider…
There are a few main considerations for whether you should go home for the holidays this year or stay at home. Below are common considerations for whether spending time at home with the family is healthy and safe, or whether it is risky and full of triggers…
Family Member Substance Use
Family member substance use can be anywhere from mild to severe. There are some families that barely drink or use any substances at all. There are others that like to celebrate with lots of toasts, glasses of scotch, and spiked eggnog. It’s important to consider how your family celebrates the holidays, and what level of substance use you can expect.
Emotional Triggers
You may have a very loving and nurturing relationship with your family, a toxic one, or a relationship that is somewhere in between. If you know you have family members that will be present that are likely to push your buttons and trigger you emotionally, it may be best to avoid the get-together this year.
Can Your Family Adapt to Your Needs?
This is vital. If your family knows you are in early recovery, they may be willing to adapt to meet your needs. This may include not drinking around you, not keeping alcohol in the house, not using substances, and providing you with a safe space to unwind. If they can’t or won’t meet your needs, you may need to avoid the gathering for now.
Exit Plan
No matter what promises your family makes and how healthy your home environment generally is, it’s good to have an exit plan ready. If you are driving, let them know in advance that—if things become too distressing—you may need to leave. If you fly, see what changing your tickets would look like in advance just in case.
It’s okay to plan a way out, and it’s okay to be open and honest with your family about this in advance.
Treatment From the Comfort of Your Own Home
If you are planning to stay home for the holidays and would like a higher level of care, reach out to Front Door Health.
Front Door Health specializes in in-home treatment services for patients with substance use and dual-diagnosis disorders. We offer a high level of care that is provided from the comfort of your own home. This includes during the holiday season.
In-home treatment allows patients to continue to go to work and school, fulfill their obligations, spend time with their families, and receive top-quality care while having the freedom to move about and enjoy their lives.
If you would like to learn more about in-home treatment, contact Front Door Health today. We’re happy to answer any questions and provide you with the help you need.
info@frontdoorhealthcenter.com
