What Are The Risks Of Drinking During The Holiday Season?
While the holiday season brings a sense of wonder, Thanksgiving can be a challenging time for those dealing with substance abuse, particularly alcohol. Therefore, having access to accurate information and resources is crucial in ensuring the safety of loved ones. The risks stem from the perils of excessive drinking and alcohol dependence during the holidays.
For some, this season is filled with joy, but for others, it can be tough. Research has shown that individuals with alcohol addiction are significantly more prone to suicide two days following weekends and major holidays. This should alert family and friends of those battling alcohol abuse to exercise extra caution during the holidays. Now is an ideal time to reflect on how you and your loved ones will exercise care this Thanksgiving.
How Are Addiction Recovery And Stress Connected?
Thanksgiving often involves a flurry of activities. Due to this hustle and bustle, people may experience heightened stress from balancing daily life with the added demands of family gatherings. There are also workplace parties and the pressure to create “perfect holidays.”
For those with substance abuse issues, the mix of stress and readily available alcohol can be hazardous. During the holidays, alcohol is often omnipresent. At Thanksgiving dinners, guests may engage in heavy drinking before, during, and after meals. Given that stress is frequently a trigger in addiction cycles, holidays can act as catalysts for relapse.
These factors contribute to heightened risks, which may include:
- Relapse into substance abuse
- Side effects related to stress
- Legal issues from drinking and driving
- Involvement in accidents
- Experiencing an overdose
- Progressing from heavy drinking to alcoholism
Considering these risks, it’s essential to prioritize the well-being and happiness of your loved ones throughout the holiday season, particularly on Thanksgiving.
Strategies For Celebrating A Sober Thanksgiving
#1: Provide Alternative Beverage Options
A straightforward approach to promoting sobriety during Thanksgiving is to offer a variety of non-alcoholic drinks before and during the meal. If you’re hosting, inform your guests that you’ll serve an assortment of beverages sans alcohol. However, if they feel the need to drink, they can bring their own wine or drinks. For your stock, ensure you have plenty of sparkling cider, sodas, juice, coffee, tea, and any other non-alcoholic options. You could also serve a festive Thanksgiving “mocktail,” such as hot cider or a clove and tonic.
#2: Monitor The Atmosphere And Drinking
To prevent confusion, avoid leaving alcoholic drinks easily accessible. If guests can refill their glasses at an ad-hoc bar on the table, it provides easy access for those with a tendency to drink. Make non-alcoholic drinks and snacks the focal point, placing alcohol in a less convenient spot. This way, it becomes apparent if someone returns for more.
If things seem to be spiraling, consider assigning someone to oversee the drinks. This person can control the situation by cutting off excessive drinkers or serving diluted drinks if necessary. They can also ensure guests leave safely and avoid drinking and driving.
#3: Center The Celebration On Food And Enjoyment
If you’re organizing a Thanksgiving gathering, you have the ability to steer the focus. Thus, aim to satisfy your guests with food rather than drinks. Ensure a wide variety and abundance of delicious food to indulge their tastes and satiate their hunger. The more food options available, the less inclined people will be to drink. Even if they do consume alcohol, the food will absorb it, moderating its effects on the body.
Additionally, keep the evening lively with activities and conversation. Thanksgiving is an opportunity to connect and express gratitude for loved ones. If you’re not hosting, feel free to propose fun activities throughout the day. Don’t hesitate to set an example of alcohol-free holiday enjoyment.
#4: Increase Awareness And Educate
Access to reliable information is vital for many areas of life, including alcohol consumption and substance abuse. A study has demonstrated the benefits of even a brief ten-minute educational session on binge drinking. The sample group of young people showed increased awareness of their own and their friends’ drinking habits, along with the associated risks. During the holidays, such awareness can be pivotal.
If someone appears too intoxicated to drive, don’t shy away from preventing them from leaving alone. Ensure they get a ride with a sober guest or arrange for an Uber to take them home. If required, offer them a place to stay overnight, such as on a couch or in a guest room, to avoid the hazards of driving under the influence. While education is crucial, intervening when necessary is also important.
Overall, when asked what they are grateful for this Thanksgiving, many will mention their family and friends as their top priorities. This appreciation and gratitude don’t need to involve alcohol. For those on a recovery journey, it’s crucial to enter the holiday season equipped with the tools for maintaining sobriety and progressing toward healing. If you or a loved one is ready to begin the recovery journey, reach out to a professional at Impact Recovery today.
