CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – The holidays can be a stressful time for everyone. But those struggling with a substance use disorder can find it especially difficult at this time of year. Between parties and travel, vacations can make different substances more accessible.
“There are parties and gatherings where there’s often wine or a bar and so that can be a trigger for some people,” said Senior Director of Outpatient Services with the Abbe Center for Community Mental Health Theresa Graham-Mineart.
She says there are ways to safely get through the holidays and make sure those triggers don’t lead to a relapse. One way is to plan ahead. Graham-Mineart says a good way to avoid these triggers is to check ahead of time whether there will be alcohol or other substances at any party.
“But the most important thing is to give yourself some grace. None of us have to go to every party. It’s always okay to duck out. We don’t owe anyone an explanation for that,” says Graham-Mineart.
And she says having loved ones supporting you through these types of parties and gatherings can be most impactful.
“Think carefully about who we invite to these things,” Graham-Mineart said. “Do we also offer non-alcoholic drinks, do we close the bar at 10 o’clock even though the party is supposed to last until midnight? And do we reach out to people to say, ‘Hey, I know this can be a stressful time for you, what can I do to help you?’”
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