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Are you struggling to feel the holiday cheer?
Seeking some encouragement?
The holidays can heighten stress, especially when you’re dealing with substance issues.
This season can be particularly tough when things aren’t going smoothly. This year is no different, given the surrounding uncertainty.
You might be experiencing feelings of guilt, anger, irritation, and shame regarding your child’s situation, which can dampen your holiday spirit.
While discovering joy may be challenging for those affected by addiction, it is achievable. You can still appreciate the holidays, regardless of your family’s struggles with substance use.
If you’re worried about your child, remember you are not alone. The holiday season often poses significant challenges for those in recovery and their loved ones.
If your child is newly in recovery, you might feel a sense of relief, yet the holiday season can also bring about anxiety.
Staying sober while everyone else seems to be celebrating can be tough for your child. Support from friends and family can make a big difference.
It’s understandable to think this holiday might be difficult, but there are methods to find peace and even joy.
Here are nine strategies to attain tranquility and joy during the holidays. These tips can help you feel more at ease and content this season.
Take a step back and breathe.
“Breathe. Release. Remind yourself that this moment is the only one you can be sure of.” ~ Oprah Winfrey
Taking just five minutes to sit quietly can soothe your emotional wounds. This practice can restore your peace of mind and uplift your spirits, regardless of external circumstances.
Spending some quiet time each day boosts your inner strength and can significantly improve your mood.
Simplify things.
“The real joy in life comes from the sweet and simple things.” ~ Laura Ingalls Wilder
For someone newly in recovery, keeping family gatherings small and intimate can be beneficial. Invite only those who understand your situation and provide support.
Larger gatherings with abundant alcohol might create unnecessary stress and concern for everyone involved.
Release expectations.
“My happiness increases with acceptance and decreases with expectations.” ~ Michael J. Fox
Unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment. Embrace each moment as it comes and release any preconceived notions about your ideal holiday.
It’s not necessary to live up to anyone else’s standards. During difficult times, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care.
Avoid dwelling on past holiday experiences. When negative thoughts creep in, visualize deleting them to stay grounded in the present.
Celebrate everyone’s unique journey and seek joy in every moment. Allowing family members to be who they are is one of the greatest gifts you can offer.
Express your love.
Piglet: “How do you spell love?”
Pooh: “You don’t spell it, you feel it.” ~ A.A. Milne, Winnie the Pooh
Utilize the holidays to express your love. Substance issues often arise from deeper unhappiness. It’s a prime opportunity to recognize that your child is worth so much more than their struggles with addiction.
Your child possesses unique talents and qualities. As they continue in their recovery, their positive attributes will start to emerge again.
Seek moments of joy.
“When you find something that nourishes your spirit and brings you joy, prioritize it in your life.” ~ Jean Shinoda Bolen
You may not have ample time with your recovering child, but cherish the moments you do have. Acknowledge the progress your child has made.
Appreciate each moment shared. Take pride in your family’s progress through challenging times. Celebrate the positives in your life.
Stay calm, composed, and smile often.
“Ships don’t sink due to surrounding water; they sink because of water that infiltrates them. Don’t allow external pressures to weigh you down.” ~ Unknown
Recall previous holiday seasons when addiction wasn’t an issue and savor those memories.
Even if you don’t feel upbeat, smiling can gradually help you feel happier and more at ease. Visualize your ideal holiday celebration and strive to create that reality.
Embrace the changes in life.
“Every ending is also a new beginning.
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“We just don’t know it at the time.” ~ Mitch Albom
Every holiday comes with its own mix of blessings and obstacles. Sometimes, we need to adapt our traditions to better fit the unexpected turns of life. We can always rely on the beautiful gifts of forgiveness and gratitude.
While no one desires addiction to affect their family, it can lead to personal growth and transformation. It may also prompt a reevaluation of family interactions that aren’t beneficial. A new opportunity is now open. Take a risk and discover how wonderful your life can become.
Release frustration, resentment, anger, and sadness.
“The heart is like a garden: it can grow compassion or fear, resentment or love. What seeds will you plant there?” ~ Jack Kornfield
Your emotions might overwhelm you when facing substance use issues. It can be disheartening and hurtful to see your child’s life take a downward spiral.
Spend time processing your emotions. This will allow you to forgive, release negativity, and continue moving forward. You’ll find more space for happiness and joy in your life.
By adopting the belief that things will eventually improve, you cultivate a more soothing mindset.
Time heals all wounds.
“I realized, it is not the time that heals, but what we do within that time that creates positive change.” ~ Diane Dettman
You might find yourself so consumed by your child’s issues, trying to “fix” everything, that you lose sight of yourself.
When you think of the ocean and mountains, remember they existed long before the current issue and will remain long after.
Your pain will lessen over time. Keep in mind that next year’s holiday season may bring a more positive outlook. You may find greater acceptance of your situation. Time has a way of healing many wounds.
It’s wonderful when families come together for the holidays. Make an effort to cherish your time as a family. There’s always something to be thankful for and something enjoyable.
Although these suggestions are for the holiday season, they are applicable throughout the year for all families. Wishing you a season filled with peace, tranquility, joyful memories, and happiness.
I hope the suggestions provided above are useful to you. Have you discovered any other strategies to navigate the holidays while your child struggles with substance issues? We’d love to hear from you in the comments.
If you appreciated this post, feel free to share it on your preferred social media platform. Thank you!
Thank you for taking the time to read. Don’t forget to sign up for the Sunday newsletter, which provides insights and encouragement for parents. Sign up now.
Also, consider enrolling in my online course, Regain Your Hope, which offers a structured plan to assist your child. Remember, your child can change. With love, Cathy
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