But for those suffering from addiction, the holiday season can be extremely stressful.
In fact, more than 20 million Americans over the age of 21 struggle with addiction.
“Some people call this hurricane season,” said Holland Counce, director of admissions at Longbranch Healthcare, which provides addiction treatment programs. “It’s really difficult for people with all the stressors. It’s really emotional.”
Stressors like seeing family, going through the holidays feeling as though you can’t drink anymore and you’re the odd person out, said Chris McMahon, Longbranch CEO and founder.
And there are definite spikes in relapses around the holidays, both Counce and McMahon said.
“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,” Counce said.
“For the addict, they say ‘Well, ‘I’ll do it after this one more big blowout,'” McMahon added.
Experts recommend addicts be in constant communication with their support team and reach out for help if you suspect a problem.
“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,” McMahon said.
And for McMahon and Counce, the advice comes from personal experiences. Both are recovered addicts.
“It took a village for me to get well,” Counce said. “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 loves ones suffering from addiction, McMahon and Counce say the 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 OK to say no.
“If it’s highly stressing you out, don’t do it. You can always do it next year,” McMahon said.
If you or someone you know if struggling with addiction, you can find support here.
