Allies in Recovery
Allies in Recovery
Podcast #37 Holiday Episode: When the Holidays are a Trigger
Podcast #37 Holiday Episode: When the Holidays are a Trigger
Podcast #37 Holiday Episode: When the Holidays are a Trigger
Monday 18th December 2017
Laurie MacDougall and Annie Highwater share tips on handling holiday triggers for those in recovery, focusing on expectations, family dynamics, and self-care.
42 minutes
Informative
Supportive
Empowering
Hopeful
Engaging
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Allies in Recovery
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Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Family Recovery from Addiction
Navigating Intimate Relationships
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Creative Recovery Journeys
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Get the buttons here!Handling Holiday Triggers: Insights from Laurie and Annie
I know what it's like on both sides of it, and you can survive it.
The holiday season, while often joyous, can be a minefield for families dealing with addiction recovery. In this episode of 'Coming Up for Air', hosts Laurie MacDougall and Annie Highwater break down the unique challenges that come with this festive time. They discuss how our own expectations and nostalgia can sometimes make the holidays more difficult than they need to be, especially when a loved one is in recovery.
Laurie and Annie offer practical advice on managing these expectations and creating a supportive environment. Annie shares her personal experiences, including how she once had a picture-perfect image of Christmas that led to disappointment. She emphasizes the importance of setting realistic expectations and being honest about the struggles within the family.
Laurie adds to this by talking about the importance of transparency with children, especially when shielding them from the more difficult aspects of addiction can do more harm than good. The episode also tackles the tricky subject of family dynamics during the holidays. Annie recounts dealing with a violent alcoholic uncle and how the adults in her family tried to protect the kids from the harsh realities.
She stresses the need for open communication and setting boundaries to manage these situations better. Laurie echoes this sentiment, adding that having clear consequences can help in maintaining peace. Communication is key, and both hosts stress the importance of being honest and transparent, particularly about recovery and boundaries. They suggest having a plan in place for dealing with triggers and difficult situations, which can make the holiday season more manageable.
Throughout the episode, Laurie and Annie highlight the importance of empathy and understanding. They acknowledge that recovery is a continuous process and that recognizing progress is crucial. They also share strategies for self-care during the holidays, such as setting realistic expectations and taking time for oneself. If you're looking for ways to navigate the holiday season with a loved one in recovery, this episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies to help you create a supportive and understanding environment.