Staying Clean Through the Holidays

The holidays can be an uncomfortable time for many addicts. Many have families that are dysfunctional and not a good place to be while working a program of recovery. For those who feel that the holidays are a dreaded time of year because there is a lot of bad history that comes to view at this time, here are some suggestions to hopefully help you make it through.

Recovery comes first. No matter where you go, there you are — and so is your recovery. Have a plan. Being honest about your feelings will help when faced with a situation that feels uncomfortable. Keeping feelings to yourself allows them to grow. Have your phone ready to call someone: your sponsor or persons in your support system. Bringing another person in recovery with you can also be helpful. Remember that you are responsible for your feelings and actions; no one can make you do or think anything negative as long as you place your recovery first. If you find yourself unable to cope with a situation, remove yourself. It is easier to leave than to risk a relapse. You have the tools — use them!

Avoid being alone. It is easy to isolate when facing situations that are difficult, and isolation is dangerous to us. There are meetings online and in person to help with this. It is amazing how my attitude changes when I enter a meeting of Narcotics Anonymous and hear someone share who is going through it too. There are meetings in the other fellowship that are just as helpful. It is the willingness to do something about what you are going through that may be the difference between staying clean and a relapse.

Expectations. Having a preconceived notion about how situations will play out can be a stumbling block to us. The only expectation I place on myself is that I will not use — no matter what!

You have a Higher Power. There is a Power greater than yourself keeping you clean at this moment. That Power is with you always; it's just a matter of remembering and calling upon it when needed most.

Gratitude. It is said that an attitude of gratitude will help an addict stay clean — that, and using the Steps. When I start to think about what is missing in my life, or what I could have been or done, my thoughts keep me from the present moment of being clean. I must remember that I am powerless over people, places, and things. My greatest gift in this moment is that I am clean, and unless I stay in gratitude for my recovery, I will lose it all.

There are many gifts and tools of recovery to help when confronted with situations that are difficult. If I prepare myself to use these tools so I am not caught off guard, I know I can stay clean.

Happy Holidays!

Mary Jo M.