Holiday times can be challenging for families and for someone in recovery.
For the families, there is that dreaded fear that the planned occasions will not go as planned. They want the family celebrate, but are fearful of those who do not know when enough is enough. In some families, there is good old Uncle Jack who gets belligerent after a few and causes a scene, or cousin Patty who just makes a total fool out of herself at every family get together as she is either drunk or stoned, and then there is the beloved elephant in the room... someone hasn't shown up for the festivities again, but no one wants to say anything about it, or it might draw attention to their absence.
For the one in recovery, it may be the same scenario, however his/her motivation, is to make it through the holidays still in recovery with no relapses under his/her belt and therefore they want to avoid these types of situations without looking like they are anti-social, judging others and acting holier than thou.
Either way, it can be tough. Either way, my suggestion would be to protect you first and foremost. SELF CARE is so important. It is the one gift you can give yourself.
When you practice self-care, you essentially become better mothers, fathers, brothers, daughters, spouses, and better company. When you surround yourself with like minded people, you can breathe over the holidays and actually enjoy the festivities. The food will taste better, the music will sound nicer, and you will relax about what might or could happen.
You are now in control of what you will allow to happen. You will dictate who you want to be with and who you do not want to be with. If someone else has an issue with that decision, then it is their issue, not yours. If you are truly practicing good self-care, you will be doing your best to ensure that you are creating an environment that supports your well being too.
Look for support around the holidays. Part of good self -care is surrounding yourself with good people, who understand your concerns and your commitment to your self.
Go to functions that support your self-care too or organize your own party and include the people who are dear to you and make you feel comfortable and relaxed.
Good company, good food, good belly laughs and good memories.
Remember: Tis the season to be Jolly... Falalalalalala!
For the families, there is that dreaded fear that the planned occasions will not go as planned. They want the family celebrate, but are fearful of those who do not know when enough is enough. In some families, there is good old Uncle Jack who gets belligerent after a few and causes a scene, or cousin Patty who just makes a total fool out of herself at every family get together as she is either drunk or stoned, and then there is the beloved elephant in the room... someone hasn't shown up for the festivities again, but no one wants to say anything about it, or it might draw attention to their absence.
For the one in recovery, it may be the same scenario, however his/her motivation, is to make it through the holidays still in recovery with no relapses under his/her belt and therefore they want to avoid these types of situations without looking like they are anti-social, judging others and acting holier than thou.
Either way, it can be tough. Either way, my suggestion would be to protect you first and foremost. SELF CARE is so important. It is the one gift you can give yourself.
When you practice self-care, you essentially become better mothers, fathers, brothers, daughters, spouses, and better company. When you surround yourself with like minded people, you can breathe over the holidays and actually enjoy the festivities. The food will taste better, the music will sound nicer, and you will relax about what might or could happen.
You are now in control of what you will allow to happen. You will dictate who you want to be with and who you do not want to be with. If someone else has an issue with that decision, then it is their issue, not yours. If you are truly practicing good self-care, you will be doing your best to ensure that you are creating an environment that supports your well being too.
Look for support around the holidays. Part of good self -care is surrounding yourself with good people, who understand your concerns and your commitment to your self.
Go to functions that support your self-care too or organize your own party and include the people who are dear to you and make you feel comfortable and relaxed.
Remember: Tis the season to be Jolly... Falalalalalala!
You can have a great Holiday season, if you plan to have a great holiday season. The choice is yours.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7412495
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