Special events including Christmas can be risk of relapse

For anyone who has undergone or is currently undergoing treatment for an addictive disorder, they are most likely aware that stress can be a very strong trigger for potential relapse, and although they may have been taught various strategies in an attempt to combat this stress, sometimes it can become overwhelming.  Unfortunately, even events that are supposed to bring joy, can for various reasons, also be extremely stressful.  One example of this may be holidays, such as Christmas, and other special events.  It may be that these are stressful because of family dynamics, pressure at work, or even the pressure of trying to get everything organised, and sometimes those around you may not recognise the strain you are facing, and the risk of possible relapse as a result.  It is thus vital that individuals who do find such events very stress provoking seek help and support as soon as possible, whether through a rehabilitation center, a support group, or even self help guides on-line (DrugFree, 2012).

It is also important to inform those around you of your experience, and if appropriate, seek help from your loved ones.  Of course this may not always be possible for a variety of reasons, but where it is, having the support of those closest to you, who can actively help to reduce your stress, can be extremely beneficial.

Ultimately, when in any stressful situation, it is important that if you have strategies that work, that you utilise them, and if they do not work on a certain occasion, you seek further assistance, as one thing that is guaranteed to ruin a happy occasion is falling off the wagon, and choosing to succumb to drugs once again.

DrugFree.  (2012).  Commentary: Navigating holiday stress.  Sourced from: http://www.drugfree.org/join-together/addiction/commentary-navigating-holiday-stress

Published by on 28/12/2020.

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