Christmas and New Year without family and friends may seem like a bleak prospect. But if you are struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, the festive period can be the perfect time to seek help. At our residential rehab centre in Essex, we operate over the whole holiday period. Here are some of the reasons why you should go to rehab before Christmas and New Year.
The Most Challenging Time of the Year
The festive period is a challenging time of year and can be extremely difficult if you struggle with your mental health. Christmas and New Year parties and gatherings can be triggers to drink or use drugs. Additionally, it can be easier to cover up drinking and drug use when other people are intoxicated. Not only is it easier to excuse any embarrassing behaviour by ‘blaming’ it on just one too many, but other people are also more likely to accept it was just because you were getting into the holiday spirit.
Additionally, there is typically a lot more going on. Managing work and family responsibilities can feel overwhelming. Situations that cause stress are a driving factor for many people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol. During the holiday period, stress can easily lead to an increase in drug or alcohol consumption.
Friends and Family
You may not be fully aware of how your addiction to drugs or alcohol is affecting the people you care about. But if you have reached a stage where you know you need help then it is likely that friends and family are also concerned about you. Showing your friends and family that you understand and accept the fact that you need addiction treatment is probably the very best gift you can give them.
New Year’s Resolutions
Most people don’t keep New Year’s resolutions and a few weeks into January they often fall by the wayside. Deciding that you need drug or alcohol addiction treatment is hard and delaying it until January is not a wise decision. Committing to a change before New Year and being in a supportive environment is going to help you start a life free from addiction and broken New Year’s resolutions.
You Are Not Alone in Rehab
Going to rehab before Christmas means you will not be alone over the festive period. Feeling alone over the holiday period and thinking about things you regret is a huge trigger for alcohol and drug use. Christmas can also be linked to painful memories, such as domestic abuse or child abuse, or painful memories of loved ones who have passed. Being in residential rehab means you will be with other people who understand how you feel. You will also be supported by staff that know how to help you find other ways to cope with how you are feeling and they will help you break free from addiction for good.
Get Away From Temptation
Holiday parties and gatherings almost always include alcohol. Drugs are also often readily available. At residential rehab, you will be able to get away from temptation and enjoy a safe space where you do not feel pressure from what other people are doing.
The Lighthouse residential rehab centre in Essex is open 365 days a year and the staff know how to make the holiday season in rehab a special time. We go on winter walks, decorate our communal areas and our wonderful chefs cook amazing food and everyone celebrates together. Our patients have told us that spending their Christmas and New Year at our residential rehab was an enjoyable and life-changing holiday.
At Step by Step Recovery, we offer free advice on supporting and treating addiction. We can provide addiction treatment in London and at our residential rehab centre in Essex. Please complete our online assessment form or call our free phone number on 0800 170 1222 to speak with our experienced admissions team.
