Celebrating the Holidays with Loved Ones in Early Recovery

Tis the holiday season, an opportunity for family, gatherings, and all to share their love and time.  This is a special time for most, but for an addict new in recovery, this can be a challenging time. Because of these challenges, there are things to consider in order to support the person you love who may have just completed treatment or is just starting on their road to recovery.

An addict who has just finished treatment and is out in the world is like a child learning to ride a new bike. There will be challenges, obstacles, and bumps along the road to avoid or bounce over. The holidays can be difficult without support and understanding from those around them.

In treatment, there is protection from those who understand, those who have been where you have been, and those who are there to share their love while your wounds heal. Sometimes, as families gather, the addict is fearful of the talk that has taken place while they were using or while they were gone to get help. Or maybe there are fears due to behaviors from the past that have damaged relationships or caused turmoil in the families of those who are scheduled to gather during these holidays.  There may be judgment, shame, or embarrassment, which are all unfamiliar emotions to the addict in early recovery. These emotions can spill over as a client tries to maneuver these family functions.

Please make room not only in your hearts but in your expectations for the addict in recovery. Offer space, support future goals, don’t harp on the past or drag up old crimes, show love, play Monopoly or dance to your favorite songs…understand if your loved one needs to step outside for air, don’t ask too many questions, just know that for an addict in early recovery…they need to breathe, they may call a friend, they might be quiet…just quietly fill your heart with gratitude…they are safe, they are alive, and they are home.