Holiday Survival Guide: Managing Family and Sobriety
If you're out there and you're in recovery, now is the time for you just to be ironclad, strong in the courage it takes for you to be clean through the holidays.
The holiday season can be a minefield for anyone in recovery. In this episode of 'Sobriety Elevated', hosts Kevin Thole and Jim Pehkonen dive into the complexities of dealing with family during the festive period. They tackle tough questions like how to handle estranged relatives and the best ways to maintain your sobriety amidst the holiday chaos. Kevin opens up about his own experiences, explaining why sometimes it's healthier to avoid toxic family members altogether.
Jim chimes in with advice on creating a safe environment, whether that means setting boundaries or skipping potentially harmful gatherings altogether. Self-care is a major theme in their discussion. With the stress and emotions that come with family gatherings, Kevin and Jim suggest practical coping mechanisms like mindfulness, exercise, and creative activities. They also talk about the importance of planning ahead for potential triggers, such as attending 12-step meetings or having a support system on standby.
Connecting with loved ones and the recovery community is another key aspect they highlight. Jim shares touching stories of reconnecting with family members he hadn't spoken to in years, emphasizing how meaningful these conversations can be. Kevin underscores the role of the recovery community in providing support and connection during this challenging time. In essence, this episode is a treasure trove of tips and insights for anyone navigating family dynamics while trying to stay sober during the holidays.
It's all about being intentional and self-aware to not only maintain sobriety but also find joy in the season.