The holidays can be a complicated time for a lot of people, especially those in early recovery. While this season can bring happiness and joy, it can also come with increased stress. For individuals in recovery, this added stress may lead to heightened triggers and urges
As a parent or loved one, you may be wondering, how can I support my teen’s recovery during the holidays? Below are 5 simple and essential tips to keep in mind this holiday season.
1. Check In With Your Teen
Ask them how they are feeling and what would feel supportive for them. Let your teen knows they don’t have to deal with the challenges by themselves. A simple check-in can go a long way!
2. Increase Your Own Awareness
Certain events that may seem positive or exciting to others—such as family gatherings or parties—can feel very different for someone in early recovery. These situations may increase feelings of anxiety, fear of questions or judgment, lead to anticipating questions they may feel unsure how they want to answer, all while learning how to feel comfortable socializing without substances. There are lots of things someone in new recovery is navigating!
Increasing your awareness can go a long way in helping you empathize with what your teen is experiencing and can support you in making informed choices about what to include (or temporarily pause) during this holiday season.
3. Be Intentional About Situations and Environments
Be mindful of the situations you choose to participate in and how you approach them. This could be making sure there are no substances available around the house, minimizing time at places that might have access to those things (which might mean a temporary change in tradition), or limiting exposure to individuals who tend to overindulge.
At the same time, be intentional about how to navigate events your family has decided are important to attend. This could include discussing what, if anything, you’d like extended family to know beforehand, bringing your teen’s favorite soda or non-alcoholic drink, identifying a code word your teen can use if they feel triggered and need a break, or discussing how you can support them in the moment if challenges arise.
4. Engage in Your Own Self-Care
Just as the holidays can be a trigger for your child, many families report the holidays can be really triggering for them as well. You may have memories of past substance use, fears of relapse, or added emotional strain and stress. Prioritizing your own self-care can help you show up as your best self and better support your loved one. If you’re looking for a space to process these emotions, our free parent support group offers a place to connect with others who truly understand, share practical tips, and find comfort.
5. Managing Expectations and Staying in The Moment
Families and individuals in recovery often have expectations of what a sober holiday will or “should” look like. This may include wishing things could return to how they were before the substance use or how you always hoped they would be without the use. These expectations can create pressure and lead to disappointment if they aren’t met.
This holiday season, try to make a conscious effort to stay present. While this can be easier said than done, if you notice yourself slipping into expectation-based thinking, gently redirect your focus to the current moment. Staying present and practicing gratitude for what is happening right now can be grounding, decrease feelings of stress, and feel supportive for everyone involved. Mindful.org offers free tools for helping you stay grounded and present.
Finding Support for Teen Substance Use
The holidays are a journey, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Evolve is here to support teens and families struggling with substance use by providing expert care and evidence-based tools. For more information on navigating this path, explore our comprehensive guide to teen substance use disorder treatment.
