Holiday Temptation: Strategies for Maintaining Sobriety

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The holidays are often regarded as the most
wonderful time of the year—however, they can be a source of stress
and temptation for those recovering from addiction and alcoholism.
Muskingum County Behavioral Health is encouraging those in recovery
to stay sober during the holiday season. Steve Carrel, Executive
Director of MBH, says the first step is to formulate a plan and
remember that it’s acceptable to leave holiday functions early if
need be.

“The first thing that all people in recovery need to do is create a plan. You know, what are your plans for the holidays—be it Christmas, New Years, both. And then, take a look at those plans—where are you going to be, who are you going to be with, and how are you going to get through that maintaining being in recovery.”

There are certain
accommodations that holiday party hosts can make to help ensure that
guests in recovery maintain their sobriety.

“If you see a
person starting to get pressure from another family member—intervene.
Have alternative beverages; or have alternatives to have fun. You
know, some families when they get together all there is is alcohol.
There’s got to be something else there; especially if you have a
loved one in recovery. Provide them a safe space—a place that they
can beg out.”

Muskingum Behavioral
Health will be holding holiday parties for Narcotics Anonymous and
Alcoholics Anonymous holiday parties that are free and open to the
public. For more information, contact MBH located on West Main Street
in Zanesville.