December 24, 2018Tyler Collins
The thought of spending the holidays inside a rehab facility may sound depressing for some people. After all, this is traditionally the season for families and friends to get-togethers so being isolated from the festivities you’re used to may not be something you would opt for.
However, staying in a treatment center and not going home may actually prove to be more beneficial for you. Here are seven reason why you should consider staying in rehab over the holidays.
You can steer clear of triggers
Being outside rehab while you’re not yet fully recovered may be too challenging for you to cope with. There are many triggers that may cause you to relapse such as the presence of alcohol, stress, family pressure, being alone, and many more.
One of the main issues for recovering addicts is the constant presence of alcohol in many parties and events. Seeing everyone drinking and enjoying themselves is a tempting scenario you’ll often find yourself in. If you stay inside rehab, you’re assured that you are in an environment where these triggers are minimized.
You can focus all your energy on getting better
The holiday rush can put so much pressure on you to participate in several activities. You have to get a tree, buy some gifts, attend parties, and take part in what you’re family has planned. This can be a stressful time that may cause you to reach for a drink or to relapse.
You can concentrate on yourself so you could get better when you are inside rehab.. Do not feel guilty about prioritizing yourself first especially in this critical stage of your life.
You’re surrounded by people who will support you and offer no judgment
Support is a very important factor when you’re recovering. During the holidays, you’re bound to see many of your relatives and friends. While your immediate family may be supportive, not everyone will be able to understand what you’re going through. This can be the cause of confrontations or awkward situations that can dampen everyone’s spirit.
In rehab, you’ll have your peers and professional teams who will be with you all throughout your journey. You don’t have to fear about being judged so you can give you 100% into recovery.
You can avoid disruptions in your treatment
If you’re already inside rehab, going home for the holidays may impact your recovery negatively. Because you are not yet fully ready to face the outside world, you may feel overwhelmed with all that’s happening during this time of year.
Being outside during the holiday rush may also distract you from your motivation to get clean and sober. Sometimes, going out may cause you to be back to square one and lose all your progress.
Your family and friends would want the best for your recovery
Many recovering patients usually worry about what their family and friends will feel if they don’t show up for the holidays. The thing is, while your presence is a great gift, a better gift will be for you to show them that you’re committed to your recovery.
If you clearly explain your situation to your loved ones, for sure they will understand why you need to take this time off for yourself. It’s better to be with your family again when you’re fully recovered so you can wholly take part in the festivities without the fear of relapsing.
You can spend many more future holidays clean and sober
Don’t pity yourself for missing this year’s Christmas or New Year’s Eve. Taking a time-out for one holiday season is an investment for you to be able to spend many more future holidays clean and sober.
This is the time for you to reflect and think about not just about the immediate holiday season, but you’re long life ahead of you after recovery.
You’ll have the opportunity to start the New Year with the New You!
Starting the year clean, sober and ready for new opportunities is an amazing feeling you should not deprive yourself of. The holidays may pass but you still have you whole life ahead of you. This is your chance to make a change and jumpstart your life for the better!
The holiday season may be a difficult and emotional time for a person struggling with alcohol or drug addiction. If you or a loved one is in this critical situation, please know that help is available today. Contact Lighthouse Treatment Center learn more about our specialized modes of treatment that can help.