Surviving Holiday Stress: Tips for Staying Sober
Episode Overview
Identify internal triggers rather than focusing on external factors. Use deep belly breathing and gratitude exercises to manage anxiety. Plan ahead for social events and have responses ready for drink offers. Stay connected with supportive friends and communities. Utilise the sober holiday podcast playlist for ongoing motivation.
It's not about the drink. What you're really craving is to escape the feeling you're having.
The holiday season can be a magical time filled with sparkling lights and heartfelt traditions, but for those in recovery, it can also be a minefield of stress and temptation. In this episode of Addiction Unlimited, Angela Pugh tackles the often-overlooked stressors that make the holidays challenging for those striving to stay sober. From financial pressures to disrupted routines, Angela provides practical tips to help you protect your recovery and set boundaries while still enjoying the festive season.
She emphasises that the real triggers aren't just the external factors like social events and family gatherings but also the internal feelings of anxiety, guilt, and inadequacy. Angela shares simple yet effective strategies such as deep belly breathing, gratitude exercises, and planning ahead to manage these emotions. She also introduces a special sober holiday podcast playlist packed with episodes to keep you grounded and motivated throughout the season.
With her no-nonsense approach and relatable anecdotes, Angela offers valuable insights and tools to help you navigate the holidays confidently and stay alcohol-free. Whether you're dealing with family dynamics, social events, or just finding comfort in quiet moments alone, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to maintain their sobriety during the holidays.