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What is The Link Between Addiction and the Winter Holiday Season

What is The Link Between Addiction and the Winter Holiday Season
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Drug Rehab Florida, Everybody finds the holidays challenging, but addicts may face particular difficulties during this time. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), January and December are two of the months with the highest risk of drug- and alcohol-related fatalities. This article will explain why the Christmas season may make it difficult to stay sober and what you can do to get assistance if necessary.

Does Addiction to Drugs Increase During the Holidays?

It has long been known that the holidays and addiction are related. When exposed to particular triggers, many addicts are more likely to misuse drugs and alcohol, and sadly, the holiday season is full of them.

These potential triggers should be watched out for by those with substance use disorders over the holiday season.

If you know someone struggling with addiction or experiencing difficult time in staying sober, get them at The Luminous Care, Alcohol Rehab Florida.

Holiday Stress in General

While the holidays can be a happy time, many people find the chaos they bring to be stressful. Stress that makes you want to turn to drugs or alcohol for comfort might be brought on by just juggling holiday parties, work-related social responsibilities, decorating, gift shopping, gift wrapping, cooking & baking, and other time-consuming duties. In such a case, search for the best alcohol rehab florida.

Grief

It’s normal to reflect on prior years and remember loved ones who have passed away throughout the Christmas season. Even years after a loss occurs, grief over a loved one’s passing or a divorce might resurface during the holidays. The grief-induced rage and anguish might lead to substance abuse in certain persons.

Family Discord

You might be able to stay away from family members all year if your connections with them are strained. However, there may be pressure to get along during the holidays. Being thrown into family conflict and turmoil, which can quickly lead to a relapse, may result from this.

Holiday Behavior

It’s common to drink alcohol around the holidays. Parties at work and family events may involve drinking, which makes people with substance use disorders feel uncomfortable and excluded. Additionally, having free alcohol readily available can lead to temptation and bring on difficult-to-resist cravings.

Financial Anxiety

Purchasing goods for parties and gatherings, holiday gratuities, and gift-giving all quickly increase costs over this season. People who struggle financially could turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their stress.

Depressive Seasonal Disorder

The shortest day of the year occurs on December 21. Your mood can be affected by less daylight, and for some people, it can cause varied degrees of despair. Some people with substance addiction may also suffer from seasonal affective disorder or SAD. This mental health disease can cause many of the same symptoms as clinical depression because it develops when brain chemical levels become unbalanced as a result of a lack of sunlight. During the holiday season, SAD sufferers may attempt to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol.

Social Anxiety

Many individuals appreciate that the holidays are a time for getting together. However, those who suffer from generalized or social anxiety disorders might dread being among huge crowds or going to social gatherings. These people could use drink and drugs to help them unwind or feel more at ease in social situations.

Advice for Remaining Sober Over the Holidays

Consider the following advice to help you stay sober over the holidays:

  • Keep your commitments reasonable; you don’t have to accept every invitation.
  • Make an escape strategy to gracefully leave circumstances that could lead to substance abuse.
  • In order to avoid disappointment, make sure your expectations for the season are reasonable.
  • Stay occupied throughout the season by volunteering your time.
  • During holiday gatherings, volunteer to help in the kitchen to reduce your temptation to drink.
  • Ensure your own wellbeing. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and relaxation exercises are all recommended.
  • Obtain qualified assistance if you require it. Attend support group meetings, sign up for an outpatient programme, or, if necessary, check into an inpatient recovery facility.

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