A SEASON OF SOBRIETY

The holiday season and New Year can be joyful; but it can also be stressful.  For persons in recovery from drug and alcohol abuse, the holidays often present special challenges.  It can be difficult to maintain abstinence when it feels like everyone around you is drinking and when you are constantly being asked “Would you like a drink?”  In our culture, celebrating through using alcohol is common – especially during the holidays.  Many people who are new in recovery are not strong enough to explain to others that they cannot drink, and are uneasy when someone pressures them to drink.  The holidays also often present opportunity to be around drug users – a difficult situation for someone who is trying to avoid drug use.  Since we recognize that the holidays are a high-risk time for persons in recovery, our staff is working to make sure that our clients can recognize the warning signs of relapse and to assist each person in developing a relapse prevention plan.  Some of warning signs of relapse include: exposure to alcohol and drugs at parties and family gatherings, economic stress, disruption of daily routines, heightened emotions around negative holiday memories, increased anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed.  A relapse plan should include a list of possible triggers, a plan that is developed in advance of encountering the triggers, and a review of one’s support system, and a plan to utilize the support system.

Please join us in saying: “You can get past this…the urge to use will go away….you have come too far in treatment to blow it…let’s do something fun and relaxing that doesn’t involve drugs or alcohol….”

Don’t join those who are saying: “Come on - just one drink won’t hurt…it’s only champagne…it’s the holidays, you can stop when they are over…don’t worry, have a drink!”

If you or someone you care about has a drug or alcohol related problem, appointments to meet with our addiction staff can be scheduled at 410-444-2100.  Our treatment slots are publicly funded and are available to persons without insurance who can benefit from outpatient substance abuse treatment.

THE HARBEL PREVENTION AND RECOVERY STAFF WISHES EVERYONE A HAPPY, HEALTHY AND SAFE NEW YEAR!!

If you have any questions about our treatment program or it’s adjunct services – such as child care, GED literacy, or employment counseling please call us at 410-444-2100.