by Angela Linden, Clinical Director
Center for Addictive Diseases

The holidays are approaching and we all think of good cheer, but for many people the holidays are a very difficult time.  We rarely think about how many of our holiday traditions involve alcohol and excess.  How can we make the holidays safer for everyone and more enjoyable for our friends in recovery?

When you are planning a party, always be sure to have non-alcoholic drinks available and easy to access.  It can be just as festive to have non-alcoholic eggnog and other seasonal drinks.  If you have not eliminated alcohol from your party be sure that you have alternative ways to get guests home.  Designated drivers, taxis or overnight accommodations are all ways to keep everyone safe.  Alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes kill someone every 31 minutes and non-fatally injure someone every two minutes.  Approximately 1.5 million drivers were arrested in 2002 for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.  This is an arrest rate of 1 for every 130 licensed drivers in the United States. (NHTSA 2004)  Be cautious; do not think it could not happen to you.  According to the National Commission Against Drunk Driving, between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day as many as 2,000 people are killed in traffic accidents nationwide.

Holidays are a time when we want to have our children and teenagers enjoy the season, but the most importantly, we want to be sure they are safe.  Don’t be afraid to talk openly with your teens and young adults about the dangers of alcohol, drugs and peer pressure.  Let them know about the increase in high risk behavior during the holiday break when they have so much more free time.  Remember that your own behavior is the best model for you children of any age.

The holidays can be a difficult time for many people.  They can be overwhelmed with financial issues, family and shopping demands.  They may feel a great deal of loneliness, stress and isolation during the season. This is especially true for anyone who is in recovery at this time of the year.  They need to be sure to attend extra meetings or put in place extra supports. Everyone needs to be sure to manage their time, learn how to say no, and reflect on the meaning of the holiday.  Alcohol may make us feel better for a while but it is a depressant and will only create more problems.

It is important to remember that the holidays can be very difficult for families who have members with substance abuse problems.  Don’t wait for a crisis, seek help and support now.  The holidays can be a troubled time in these families, but sometimes the person with the problem has hit their bottom around the holidays and is more open to seeking help.  There is help available if you or someone in your family is struggling.  Center for Addictive Diseases can assist you to find the right treatment or support group for you and your family members.  Exton and Drexel Hill offices of CAD all wish you a happy and safe holiday season.