Setting Boundaries This Holiday Season

The holiday season is approaching, and this means family get-togethers, Thanksgiving dinners, work Christmas parties, and other festivities. And while you might enjoy seeing those you care about; you need to also be prepared to set boundaries with them if you’re in recovery.

It’s important to communicate with those around you on what your boundaries are. Speaking up for yourself is crucial for your recovery, especially during holiday celebrations and other parties where alcohol and drugs could be present.

Setting boundaries can look different for everyone. It all depends on what your limits are. One thing is true- your boundaries are important and should be respected.

There are many kinds of boundaries you can set. Below are a few examples:

Eliminating Potential Triggers

If you know that even seeing alcohol or drugs could cause you to react, it’s best to make sure they’re not present wherever you’re going. For example, if you’re spending the night at your parents’, think about asking them ahead of time if they can hide their alcohol. This could also look like making sure there will be no drinking games either. Having a physical boundary set between you and your peers is one of the easier ways to eliminate triggers. Out of sight, out of mind.

Map Out Your Schedule

Setting time boundaries are crucial, especially during the busy holiday season. For some, it’s important that you have a fairly busy schedule, to keep you from being alone and potentially turning to drugs or alcohol with no one there to stop you. For others, this looks like setting time to be alone and recoup- maybe after a busy and overwhelming day of family get-togethers. Our recovery journeys are all different, so it’s important to create a schedule that will compliment yours.

Set A Standard For Yourself

This is a boundary that you set internally, to hold yourself accountable. An example of this would be leaving a party where drugs and alcohol are present. It could also include changing the conversation with a friend or family member when it turns to topics that are triggering. At the end of the day, you know yourself best, so it’s important to set your own standard.

The holidays can be a wonderful experience or a difficult challenge. There are many potential triggers surrounding this time of year, but it’s up to you to take control of them. Setting boundaries ahead of time ensures you’re starting the festivities on the right foot.

If you need additional guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to ShareHouse. We are here for you, any day of the year. Our staff works around the clock, ensuring you are receiving the best care while seeking recovery.

ShareHouse General Fund	Gifts to be used where the need is greatest
Helping Hand Fund	Funds to pay for situations that are barriers to recovery & when the Patient has no other option for funding i.e. Clothing for new job, medical co-pays, transportation, etc.
Sober Fun Fund	Gifts to fund Sober Fund

Setting Boundaries This Holiday Season