Being with family at Thanksgiving or shopping for Black Friday deals can be fun for many people.
For those suffering from addiction it can be extremely stressful.
In fact more than 20 million Americans over the age of 12 have an addiction.
Megan Kelly spoke with mental health experts about how to handle addiction during the holidays.
The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is here.
It can be a stressful time for anyone, but for addicts…even more so.
CEO and founder of Longbranch Healthcare Chris Mcmahon as well as director of admissions Holland Counce say there’s a definite spike in relapses around the holidays.
Holland Counce, “Some people call this hurricane season. It’s really difficult for people with all the stressors, it’s really emotional.”
Chris Mcmahon, CEO and founder of Longbranch Healthcare says, “Stressors like seeing family, going through the holidays, feeling as though you can’t drink anymore and you’re the odd man out.”
Counce says, “You definitely see an uptick in people who have either relapsed or for the first time are starting to see a lot of consequences for their drinking or drug use.”
Experts recommend addicts be in constant communication with their support team and reach out for help if you suspect a problem.
Mcmahon said, “I would tell your aa support group that you’re going, have an escape plan, stay in touch with your sponsor, call your sponsor before you go, if you feel weird leave. there is nothing wrong with telling people no.”
For Mcmahon and Counce, the advice comes from personal experiences. Both are recovered addicts.
Counce, “It took a village for me to get well. it took my family, it took really good treatment, it took being put in a good environment. If it wasn’t for that, i’m not sure i’d still be here.”
As for families of loved ones suffering from addiction, Mcmahon and Counce say the best thing to do is hold the addict accountable to follow their recovery program.
And remind them, if a situation is too stressful or triggering for them, it’s okay to say no.
Mcmahon said, If it’s highly stressing you out, don’t do it. you can always do it next year.
