Dealing With Holiday Stress

In this episode of the Recovery Rebirth Podcast–our one year anniversary show–we discuss the varying stressors during the holiday season. The holidays can be especially difficult for people in recovery. Whether we’re trying to stay sober from our addictions or obsessively worrying about & trying to control a loved one's addiction.Navigating addiction & codependency amplifies the usual holiday stress. finances, overscheduling ourselves, feeling pressure over obligations (e.g. sending cards, baking, buying gifts)  Many people also struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) during the winter months. It’s no secret that many in recovery are already prone to anxiety and/or depression, the lack of sunshine can amplify feelings of sadness & hopelessness. This can also be a time of year where we feel acute sadness about loved ones we’ve lost through either death, estrangement or separation. The rates of relapse & suicide are sadly higher during what is supposed “the most wonderful time of the year” In reality, it can be the most stressful & depressing time of the year. Our families of origin can be a tremendous source of anxiety and stress during the holidays. Some of us find our family of choice through our recovery programs. We find safe spaces to share our experience, strength & hope among others who understand & don’t judge us. Unlike family gatherings where we may experience anger, resentment & shame, we can feel acceptance, serenity & support with our recovery families. We also touch on the pitfalls of social media during the holidays. It can be easy to fall into the trap of comparing our lives to others. Social media isn’t real life.  It is not an accurate reflection of the full scope of what’s going on in other people’s lives. It’s often the carefully curated highlight reels that we see. A social media break can be an excellent form of self-care for those of us prone to the “compare & despair” mentality. We talk about strategies to combat stress during the holidays (or any time of year) Simplifying and not doing things out of obligation is one way to reduce stress at the holidays. We realize it’s easier for some people than others to simplify during the holidays, but encourage you to simplify wherever possible.  Remember, there are always meetings available, even on the major holidays, where you can be among fellow travelers. It’s a safe space to connect with folks who share & understand your concern, frustration, resentment & feelings of hopelessness. The holidays are a great time to practice boundaries & also letting go of things outside our control (spoiler:most things are outside our control!). It’s also a prime opportunity to connect with our Higher Power or God of our Understanding.  We’re wishing you a serene & joy-filled holiday season full of memories you’ll cherish for years to come. No matter what the holiday season may hold, we lovingly suggest you to take it One Day at a Time. And please remember you don’t have to get through it alone. Recovery is a “we” program.   Resources Websites https://www.samhsa.gov/ https://www.recoveryanswers.org/recovery-101/ https://www.aa.org/ https://al-anon.org/ https://www.swmichiganal-anon.org/ https://coda.org/ Previous Episodes https://www.vivacityventures.com/suicide/ https://www.vivacityventures.com/dealing-with-anxiety/ https://www.vivacityventures.com/recovering-from-grief-part-1-of-3/ https://www.vivacityventures.com/recovering-from-grief-part-2-of-3/