For many people, the holidays come wrapped in warmth: traditions, gatherings, and a calendar full of “shoulds.” But for someone living with substance use disorder—whether actively using, newly sober, or years into recovery—this season can feel like an obstacle course.
Recovery programs like Dismas Home exist for moments exactly like this: not to remove every stressor, but to build the treatment foundation, coping skills, and support network that help people move through the season safely—and keep moving forward after it.
We’ve pulled together some tidbits and tips from other leaders in the recovery world to help ease the season – for everyone.
Why the Season Can Hit So Hard (Especially for People in Recovery)
The holidays tend to amplify everything:
- More exposure to alcohol and other substances. Parties, work events, and even “casual” get-togethers often normalize heavy drinking, and some people drink more than usual this time of year. NIAAA+1
- Stress and overstimulation. Crowds, schedules, travel, shopping, and financial pressure can spike anxiety and irritability.
- Family dynamics and old roles. Returning to familiar environments can trigger shame, conflict, or the urge to numb out.
- Grief and loneliness. The holidays can intensify sadness—especially for those navigating loss, estrangement, or isolation. SAMHSA notes that it’s normal to experience difficult feelings during the holiday season, and planning ahead can help make difficult moments more manageable. SAMHSA
- Disruption of routines. Sleep, meals, meetings, exercise—healthy rhythms can get squeezed out, and routines are protective in recovery.
None of this means someone is “doing recovery wrong.” It means the season is real—and so is the need for support.
Evidence-Informed Ways to Navigate the Holidays in Recovery
Here are practical strategies that recovery professionals consistently recommend—and that many people in recovery swear by.
1) Make a simple plan (before you need it)
Write down:
- What events you’re attending (and which you’re skipping)
- Your biggest triggers (people, places, emotions, substances)
- What you’ll do if cravings spike (who you’ll call, where you’ll go, what you’ll do for 20 minutes)
SAMHSA encourages building a plan for moments of stress, sadness, or loneliness—like reaching out to a trusted person, taking a walk, or grounding with a comforting activity. SAMHSA
2) Keep your support “turned up,” not turned down
If you attend mutual-aid meetings, therapy, or recovery coaching—consider adding an extra touchpoint during the holiday stretch. Treatment and recovery are strengthened by ongoing support and follow-up care, not just willpower. National Institute on Drug Abuse
3) Use the “arrive late, leave early” rule
You don’t have to stay for the whole party to “prove” anything.
- Drive yourself if possible (so you can leave)
- Set a time limit in advance
- Have a polite exit line ready: “I’ve got an early morning—so good to see you!”
4) Bring an ally (or create one)
Ask a trusted person to be your “check-in buddy” during an event. Even a quick text—“How’s your anxiety right now?”—can break the spell of isolation.
5) Practice one sentence for offers you don’t want
Keep it short. Repeat if needed.
- “No thanks—I’m good.”
- “I’m not drinking today.”
- “I’ve got something else going on tomorrow.”
You don’t owe anyone your story.
6) Protect the basics: sleep, food, and movement
This is not fluff—this is relapse prevention. Hunger, exhaustion, and dysregulation can turn small stress into “I can’t do this.”
Aim for:
- A real breakfast
- Hydration
- One small walk
- A bedtime routine you can repeat anywhere
7) Create (or find) a substance-free tradition
A movie night. A hike. A volunteer shift. A cozy dinner with a safe person. A holiday morning coffee and journal ritual. Recovery loves replacement rituals—things that nourish instead of numb.
8) If a slip happens: reach out immediately
A setback doesn’t erase progress. The most important next step is connection and support, fast. Treatment and recovery work best when people stay engaged and keep getting help. National Institute on Drug Abuse
For Loved Ones: How to Support Someone in Recovery This Season
Sometimes the most powerful gift is making it easier for someone to stay well.
- Ask what support looks like—don’t assume. “Would it help if I stayed close?” or “Do you want a quick check-in text halfway through?”
- Reduce pressure. Don’t push events, alcohol, or “just one.”
- Offer alternatives. Have non-alcoholic drinks available, build in low-key activities, and normalize leaving early.
- Don’t make recovery the centerpiece of the gathering. Lead with belonging, not scrutiny.
- Stay curious, not judgmental. If you’re worried, focus on care: “I’ve noticed you seem overwhelmed. How can I help?”
If you’re not sure where to start, SAMHSA has holiday-specific resources focused on compassion, support, and getting help. SAMHSA
If You or Someone You Love Needs Support Right Now
If you or someone you care about is in immediate emotional distress or crisis, you can call or text 988 (U.S.) to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. They can help with mental health crises and substance use concerns. 988 Lifeline+1
For treatment referrals and information, SAMHSA’s National Helpline is available 24/7 at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). SAMHSA
Dismas Home Is Here When You’re Ready
The holidays can be a powerful mirror: they can reveal what hurts, what’s missing, and what needs to change. But they can also be a turning point.
Dismas Home of New Hampshire is here for justice-involved women who are ready for support, treatment, and a real chance at a different life—grounded in dignity, structure, and community. Our mission is to offer a safe, supportive home and a two-phase model that helps women heal and rebuild. And at the heart of it is something simple and brave: the courage to change.
If you—or someone you love—is ready to take the next step, Dismas Home is here. Reach out to learn more about our program and how to begin.