How to get through the holiday season if you’re struggling with alcohol or addiction

It’s the most wonderful time of year – but for Kiwis struggling with alcohol addiction, Christmas can be the most difficult, too.

After all that 2021 has put us through, we can joke that we will all need a few more wines to get through the holiday season.

But it’s important to remember that Christmas can be even more difficult for those already struggling with alcohol consumption.

The holidays are meant to be a fun time spent with the family, but it often comes with added financial pressure, strain on relationships, and disrupted daily routines.

All of this can cause you to have a drink more often than you should – so how do you deal with the pressure of drinking too much?

The Retreat NZ Drug and Alcohol Rehab Center shared five tips to help you get through the season of silly things.

Be honest with your loved ones and family

If you’re worried about your alcohol or drug use, let your loved ones know ahead of time. Chances are they already know this, and they’ll appreciate your honesty – and it’ll remind them not to force you to have another drink after Christmas dinner.

Be open to listening

If you’re surrounded by friends and family you trust, be open to what they have to say. If they are worried about your drinking, it’s a sign that they care about you. And while there is a lot of unnecessary advice, communicating about the problem is a good place to start.

Say no if you need it

Saying yes to something when you know it’s not going to end well can leave you overwhelmed and resentful. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to say “no” to another drink and you don’t have to explain why.

Be aware of time spent with family

Just as knowing your drinking limits is important, you should have limits in place when it comes to family.

We have all those family members who are going to blame you for staying sober this Christmas or for turning down someone’s signature holiday cocktail.

The holiday season can bring out the worst in our family relationships, but turning to alcohol won’t help matters. Instead, spend your time with loved ones who you know will support and encourage you – and if that means spending Christmas with friends this year rather than family, so be it.

What if everything becomes too much

If things get overwhelming and you feel the need to change your alcohol or drug use but aren’t sure where to start, you can call The Retreat NZ on 0800 267 237.