Enjoying the Holidays Safely

With the sound of looping Christmas carols on radio stations and in most department stores – and flashing multi-colored lights in every residential neighborhood – it’s hard not to notice the approach of the holidays. For some, the next few weeks will bring celebrations whereas others may dread the approaching holidays for the family conflicts, financial pressures, or loneliness that are more pronounced this time of year.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism emphasizes that alcohol-related crashes occur more frequently during the December holidays, especially on New Years, than other times during the year. (To learn more about the dangers of driving under the influence of substances, read Drugged Driving.) And, although research suggests that the holidays may actually help protect against suicide, many people may have trouble coping with the negative emotions that can occur as a result of a holiday that is less perfect than expected or desired. Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum, it is important to consider the role that alcohol or substances will play in your experience of the holidays before they actually arrive.

Plan in advance

If you have not had problems with alcohol or substance use in the past and plan to attend a holiday event at which you and others will be drinking, set limitations for yourself in advance. Come up with an alternate plan for getting home if your alcohol consumption will not allow you to drive yourself safely. This may include asking a friend to be a designated driver, taking the number of a cab company with you, or getting a hotel room within walking distance of the party location. If you have a habit of consuming alcohol too quickly, you may want to drink a non-alcoholic beverage in between your alcoholic drinks. In addition to potentially decreasing your intake of alcohol, this choice may be less expensive (if you are purchasing drinks in a public location) and, if you select carefully, may result in consuming fewer calories too. Additionally, alcohol and drug abuse can increase sexual risk-taking, and being aware of this before you get to a party can prevent other indirect consequences of substance abuse.

If you are a recovering alcoholic or addict, you should also “plan in advance.” Before you get to a party where there will be alcohol or substances, recommit yourself to your decision to lead a sober life. You may even want to weigh the decision to go to this type of party carefully. If you feel the temptation will be too great, you may want to consider asking a friend to also stay sober and support you at that party – or host a party of your own that will emphasize some other activity than drinking or substance use. Also, if you are visiting family or friends out-of-town, you should find a local support group and not skip meetings. (For a list of Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous meetings by state, click here.)

Equip yourself with healthy coping strategies

In light of the current state of the economy, you may already be feeling the financial burn that can come with giving gifts during this season. Perhaps you anticipate a fight or awkward encounter with an estranged family member. Maybe this year will be the first time that you will host the holiday for family, and you are feeling anxious about meeting expectations and pleasing tough critics. Perhaps you are alone, far from home, or facing your first holiday after the loss of a loved one. Whatever your situation, it is never wise to mask your emotions with a substance. Consider talking to a friend or professional therapist in advance to help you address what you are feeling. For more healthy options, read Stressed? Avoid Unhealthy Coping Strategies.