Feeling overwhelmed during the holiday season?
Searching for ways to improve your mood this time of year?
The holidays can be joyful, but they can also bring stress and sadness, especially if your child is dealing with a substance use issue.
As the festive period nears, we often observe families that seem to have everything together. Their children might portray an image of being “perfect,” despite the reality. This can stir feelings of sadness in us as we ponder, “What went wrong that led my child to struggle with addiction?”
Moreover, your child’s addiction impacts the whole family. Take the time to communicate with your other children. Acknowledge the difficulties that arise during the holidays. Share your feelings of sadness and worry. Discuss ways to make the holidays more comfortable for everyone in the future.
Remember, there is always hope, and you are not alone in this journey.
Your child might be undergoing treatment or staying in a sober living environment. While it might feel unusual, this is a milestone worth celebrating. They are making the choice to seek recovery and taking significant steps forward. You may feel their absence, but rest assured they are choosing a healthier path.
You can still find joy during the holidays, even if your family is navigating addiction. If family interactions become frustrating, prioritize your self-care. Try not to dwell on past holidays, whether they were good or bad. Focus on the present and practice letting go of judgment. Seek moments of peace each day.
Live in the moment and savor it as much as you can.
Adapting our traditions can accommodate life’s ups and downs. We can lean on forgiveness for the past, gratitude for the present, and hope for what’s to come.
A valuable lesson is that for every loss, there is a victory; for every sorrow, there is joy; and even when you believe everything is lost, there is still hope. ~ Geraldine Solon
Here are ten tips to keep in mind when the holiday season becomes challenging.
Begin with gratitude
Reflect on the positive aspects of your life. Consider the family members who support you and the blessings you’ve received. Embrace the good things this holiday season offers. Be thankful for every small joy. With time, everyone can find themselves in a better situation.
Just breathe.
Take a few minutes to sit in silence and nurture your emotional well-being. This practice can create a sense of calm for your mind and body. Meditation can help restore tranquility and happiness, regardless of what’s happening around you. Even a short daily practice can bring you reassurance. Consider using apps like Calm or Headspace to guide you.
Keep things simple.
Think about hosting smaller family gatherings where only those who support your child’s situation are invited. Big parties with abundant alcohol can be tough for someone in early recovery, and may lead to unnecessary stress.
Release expectations to find peace.
Expectations can lead to disappointment. Embrace each moment for what it is and let go of the ideal image you may have of your holiday celebration. Appreciate everyone’s life journey and allow family members the space to be who they are. This is a gift we can share during the holidays.
Stay connected.
Use this holiday season as an opportunity to express your affection for family and friends by remaining close and supportive. Understanding the underlying pain that might lead to substance use is vital. Reinforce your love for those facing challenges.
Help others.
Seek opportunities this holiday season to lend a hand or support others. Helping those in need can be one of the most fulfilling experiences. While the beneficiary appreciates your kindness, you’ll also feel uplifted, realizing that you are not alone in facing challenges this season.
Smile often.
Though it may be difficult at times, smiling frequently can boost your mood. Stay positive and cherish memories from previous holidays while remaining focused on the present. Many people are navigating significant life challenges, but being present and grateful can make a profound difference.
Positive transformations are possible.
Growth and change can happen unexpectedly. Your current challenges could be the spark for transformation. This might be an opportune moment to reassess family dynamics that aren’t working. Searching for the positives in difficulties might reveal unexpected blessings.
Release resentment, anger, and sorrow.
Take the necessary time to process your feelings, allowing space for forgiveness. Bottled-up negativity can hinder your ability to engage in family festivities. It strives to make it harder to experience joy during the holidays. Open your heart to happiness and show others in your family how to do the same.
Time heals all wounds.
“Never lose faith. Today, my son will join us with his family. We will share hugs and give thanks to each other. Eight years ago, if anyone had predicted this day, I would have deemed them crazy. Always believe in yourself and in others.” ~ Ron Grover
Your holiday experience will evolve, ideally for the better, over time. The rhythm of the holidays has its ups and downs. Remember, this year holds numerous possibilities for joy, and so do the years ahead.
Wishing you peace, calm, and happiness this holiday season.