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Who Answers?8 Triggers People Experience this Time of Year and How 12 Step Programs can Help
According Indiana University, many people experience issues after the holidays. So many in fact, that many places offer treatment for the post holiday blues. If you are in a 12 step program or are considering one, there are ways that 12 step programs can help you with the post holiday blues triggers you might experience.
1. Loneliness
After the hustle and bustle of the holidays and after family leaves, it is very easy to succumb to loneliness. Most people feel some form of loneliness after the holidays but it is particularly bad for those who crave drugs or alcohol when they are stressed or lonely.
A 12 step program can help with the loneliness by giving you somewhere to be around people who understand what you are going through. Many 12 step programs have sober activities and trips to help with bonding and staying sober.
2. Post Holiday Blues
Feelings of loneliness and depression are common after the holidays are over, and can be a trigger for substance abuse.
The post holiday blues are a condition suffered by many during January and February. It is a form of depression that is not usually lasting but can trigger relapse. A good 12 step program will give you the tools to deal with this depression before it becomes an issue.
3. Financial Difficulties Due to Holiday Spending
It is well known that people over spend during the holidays. This leads to credit and financial issues. The stress associated with financial problems is a well documented trigger. Not only can a 12 step program help you stop overspending before the holidays by offering support, they can help you deal with the stress associated with overspending after the holidays.
4. Stress Let Down
Although it might seem like less stress is a good thing, some people suffer from stress let down. The holiday season is an extremely active time of year. Once this activity is no longer a factor, the adrenaline that the stress creates leaves the body. With nothing to do, plan for, or accomplish the stress let down can cause relapse.
A good 12 step program helps you deal with that stress let down and the depression that follows. Most programs have entire sections devoted to stress reduction and how to deal with depression.
5. Unrealistic Expectations
January is a time for New Year’s resolutions. Unfortunately, many people give themselves unrealistic things to accomplish. This adds to the post holiday triggers. A 12 step program can help you develop realistic resolutions or the 12 steps themselves can be your resolutions.
6. Stress of Returning to Work
Many people take time off for the holidays. This results in some work piling up and the stress of getting back into a regular work schedule. Many people who are in recovery experience this stress and relapse.
A solid 12 step program will teach you how to combat this stress. They offer a solid support structure that can help prevent relapse.
7. Superbowl Parties
Although the holidays are over there is still one situation that is often associated with drinking and drug use, the Superbowl. The Superbowel usually involves drinking and parties. Most 12 step programs offer a sober alternative to the traditional party or sports bar.
8. Difficulty finding Treatment after Relapse
Many feel ashamed if they relapse during the holidays. It is important to understand that relapse happens and a 12 step program can help you get back on the path to recovery. To find a 12 step program that suits your needs call us at 1-800-895-1695.