The holiday season means many things to many people. For most, it means heading back home for the holidays.

But heading home can be a mixed experience, especially if you’re working on your recovery. Home is often full of triggers, especially if your addiction was active when you were in that environment. So, how do you go home for the holidays while staying sober during the holidays? If you’ve completed detox and the initial steps of residential drug addiction treatment in Gilman, you’re likely looking for extra support to stay on track in holiday sobriety. It is possible to head home for the holidays and stay sober and we’re here to help.

Tools for Staying Sober for the Holidays and Beyond

  With all the triggers that can come along with the holiday season and a homecoming, support and treatment should extend into this environment. At Banyan Heartland, we know that IOP rehab in Illinois can give patients this ongoing support throughout the holiday season. IOP is the next step in the addiction treatment process for patients who need extra support as they readjust to everyday life following inpatient or PHP treatment. Many patients head home for the holidays but visit our IOP program daily to stay on track in their recovery. IOP varies in levels of intensity, and some choose OP rehab as well to stay on track.

For those who have been sober for some time but still need guidance when it comes to holiday sobriety, there are additional resources. If you have completed the treatment path and are not interested in entering IOP or OP, there are other resources such as our Banyan Alumni Recovery Program that connects former patients with support systems nationwide. An alumni program can give you the support you need to stay sober for the holidays and beyond.

Tips for Holiday Sobriety

  We also suggest following up with your sponsor throughout the holidays to cope with any triggers or stresses that happen. We’re sharing additional tips for staying sober over the holidays:

• Be honest with your friends and family about your recovery so they do not offer you alcoholic drinks
• Avoid situations that you will not be able to handle on your own, or bring a loved one who can support you in these situations
• Practice HALT when you’re feeling challenges of relapse
• Make sure to eat healthy and keep a regular sleep schedule

Staying sober for the holidays, even with triggers and stresses, is possible. IOP, OP, and alumni programs all provide robust support for holiday sobriety.

Contact our team at 888-280-4763 to learn more about our supportive programs at Banyan Heartland.