The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and celebration—or at least that’s what the media tells us it should be like! In reality, the holidays are the most stressful time of the year. Study after study shows that people have less time, more responsibilities, and higher expectations this time of year, and many have to go through this while also experiencing seasonal depression. 

For those who are newly recovering from substance use, the holidays can be even more demanding. In fact, you might be angry with yourself for not feeling the “holiday spirit” like you should. But don’t worry; while the holidays do bring magic into our lives, most people are still feeling the stress one way or another. 

Whether you’re worried about social gatherings, managing stress, combating loneliness, or maintaining your sobriety, you are not alone. Let’s explore the unique hurdles that people in recovery face around the holidays and provide you with actionable strategies that will help you thrive this festive season. 

Why the Holidays Can Be Challenging for People in Early Sobriety 

Alcohol-Centric Celebrations 

Many holiday traditions revolve around drinking, from champagne toasts at parties to eggnog at family dinners. The social pressure to “join in the fun” can feel overwhelming. Some people also use alcohol to cope with the emotional stress of the holidays.

Emotional Triggers 

The holidays can bring up feelings of loneliness, grief, or unresolved family tensions. Whether it’s stress from planning holiday celebrations, buying gifts for everyone on your list, or getting the home ready to accommodate visitors, all of this can amplify emotional vulnerability. 

Nostalgia and Routine 

Memories of past holidays, especially those tied to substance use, may create cravings or temptations. Breaking these habits can be done, but it might feel isolating when others around you continue as before. 

Family Dynamics 

If there’s one thing about the holidays that everyone shares, it’s an increase in family time. However, some dynamics are complicated, and getting together with family might bring up unresolved conflict or strained relationships. Additionally, it’s possible that not everyone will understand or support your sobriety. 

Less Support 

Busy schedules can make it harder to connect with recovery networks, counselors, or sponsors. You might feel like you’re navigating sobriety on your own, which can be problematic if you’re new to recovery and lack essential coping skills. 

Strategies for Staying Sober During the Holidays 

One of the best things you can do is plan ahead for the holidays. Set boundaries for yourself, and decide which events to attend and how long you’ll stay. It’s okay to decline invitations, especially if they are focused on alcohol. Your recovery is your priority right now, and every decision you make should support this. People in recovery often find it helpful to bring along their own beverages to avoid questions or offers of alcohol. 

Additional strategies for maintaining sobriety over the holiday season are: 

• Lean on your support system. Regularly check in with your sponsor, counselor, or sober friends. Chances are, they are feeling some of the things you are, and talking to them can help you feel less alone. 
• Attend meetings. Many recovery groups hold extra meetings or virtual gatherings during the holidays since this time of year can be stressful. If you plan on traveling for the holidays, look up meetings in that area. 
• Have an accountability partner. If you do venture out to a holiday work party or friends gathering, bring a trusted friend or recovery ally with you for support. 
• Create new traditions. If your old traditions remind you of drinking, replace them with new traditions. Ideas include hosting a mocktail party, organizing a holiday walk to look at lights, or volunteering at a local charity to give back. 
• Have an exit strategy. Always have a way to leave a situation if you feel uncomfortable or triggered. You can bring a trusted friend, drive your own car, or have a rideshare app downloaded to your phone. 
• Stay present. The holidays can feel long and tiresome, but try to take each moment as it comes. Focusing on the here and now can relieve anxiety over what’s to come. Also, be sure to practice gratitude by reflecting on the positive aspects of your sobriety. 

What to Do When Cravings Strike

Despite your best efforts, it’s still possible for cravings to strike, especially this early in recovery. When you do feel a craving coming on, take a few breaths to calm your mind and body. Step away from the situation and distract yourself with an activity like calling a friend, taking a walk, or reading a positive quote from a mindfulness app. Reflect on the reasons why you chose sobriety and the progress you’ve made. If you need additional support, call your sponsor, a recovery hotline, or a trusted friend. 

Holiday Activities That Support Sobriety in Lehigh Valley, PA

Looking for ideas on what you can do this holiday season that won’t compromise your sobriety? It might seem like you’re missing out on fun, but if you look hard enough, you’ll see that the holidays are so much more than drinking. Here are some ideas: 

• Attend sober holiday events. Here in Lehigh Valley, PA, there is plenty to enjoy! Bethlehem boasts one of the top-ranked holiday markets in the world. Christkindlmarkt is a German-inspired market featuring artisans and craftspeople, performances, and delicious food! You can also go ice skating at The Ice Rink at SteelStacks. 
• Watch a performance at a local theater. Local theaters showcase wonderful performances this time of year, such as The Nutcrackers and A Christmas Carol. There are even unique productions that you can only see in Lehigh Valley like Christmas City Follies. 
• Admire festive holiday displays. If you enjoy looking at holiday lights, grab a cup of hot cocoa and treat yourself to tens of thousands of twinkling lights at Lights in the Parkway, Winter Light Spectacular at Lehigh Valley Zoo, or Illumination at Coca-Cola Park. 
• Menorah and tree lighting. Check out the many tree lightings and Menorah lightings throughout Lehigh Valley. These ceremonies are held in different locations, including Easton, Allentown, and Bethlehem. 

Embrace the Gift of Sobriety 

Sobriety is not something that happens easily. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication, and not everyone will understand your journey. Be honest about where you are at in the healing process and what you are able to do and not do. It might feel strange to decline certain invitations, but with the steps you are taking to heal yourself, you will be able to enjoy many future holidays! You are giving yourself the gift of sobriety—the gift of life! If you need support this season, please reach out to Recovery Cove at 484-549-COVE. We are open this holiday season and here to support you!