Holiday season is upon us, and this usually signals the beginning of family Christmas parties and social gatherings with friends.
Though this time of year is supposed to be jolly and bright, it may tend to become stressful rather easily. If someone is struggling with alcohol abuse or is in recovery, this time of year may trigger intense, unwanted emotions.
To lessen one’s chances of relapse, two members from the Primary Purpose Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, Deborah P. and Megan R., are adamant that Alcoholics Anonymous meetings and the fellowship it brings can be crucial to ones recovery.
“Meetings are available throughout the day and night, and can be via Zoom or in person,” said Deborah. “There’s no reason you have to face these challenges alone.”
Often, wine, champagne, and other celebratory beverages are served at holiday gatherings. To help avoid such beverages at a party, Megan recommends picking up a non-alcoholic beverage as soon as possible after arriving. Already having a drink lessens the chances of someone offering you alcohol.
Additionally, you may bring a friend or partner to support you and encourage your decision not to drink. If no one is available to attend with you, try to drive yourself to the function if at all possible. This allows you to have a means of leaving if the situation becomes too uncomfortable.
“Always have a plan of action and give yourself an out,” advises Megan.
Feelings of loneliness during the holidays can worsen these emotions. This year, the added isolation of quarantine seems to double these effects.
“It’s such an important time that we all reach out and support each other and be in the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous,” said Megan. “Being shut off from one another is hard enough already, much less with the holidays coming up.”
Conversely, for some individuals too much time with family may induce just as much—if not more—stress than being alone. If time with family becomes too intense, Deborah recommends taking a step back and deciding what is best for you personally.
“There are meetings all over Moore County and online all times of day. If you need someone to talk to, see who’s available,” advises Deborah.
Megan suggests putting aside time for yourself when things begin to get hectic.
“Allow yourself to go to the park or just to make a good time for yourself,” Megan says. “Allow yourself to take a drive somewhere nice. Have a plan of action and set yourself up for success.”
Above all else, Megan and Deborah agree that seeking help is vitally important and that support can be found through fellowship at Alcoholics Anonymous.
“I know I have somewhere to go after I have a rough day,” said Megan. “I have this beautiful, ragtag family who all come together to support one another. We all want to learn how to get through life together.”
The Primary Purpose Group of Alcoholics Anonymous meet at the First Baptist Church in Southern Pines meets at 7:00PM Mondays and Thursdays. For more information about Moore County Alcoholics Anonymous, visit www.moorecountyaa.org.
