Editor’s Note 2025 Update
This article has been updated to explain with current evidence why the holiday season can be especially difficult for people with addiction or in recovery. This version draws on public health research, psychology insights, and mental health data. Scripture and faith based encouragement are woven throughout to offer hope and practical guidance.
The holidays are often portrayed as joyful celebration and togetherness. Yet for many people living with addiction or working toward recovery, this season can actually feel overwhelming, stressful, and emotionally intense. Understanding what makes the holidays challenging can help individuals and loved ones prepare, set healthy boundaries, and build coping plans grounded in compassion and hope.
Emotional Stress and High Expectations
The holiday season brings expectations of cheer, connection, and celebration. But these expectations can feel heavy when someone is struggling emotionally or navigating early recovery. The pressure to be happy and socially engaged can create intense feelings of anxiety or inadequacy. These emotional stressors can trigger old coping habits tied to substance use.
Social Gatherings Often Involve Substances
Social events, family dinners, office parties, and seasonal celebrations frequently include alcohol or other substances. Even well meaning hosts may encourage a drink or substance use as part of tradition. For someone in recovery, this constant exposure, paired with social pressure, can elevate craving risk and make sobriety more difficult to maintain.
Disrupted Routines and Structure
Routine is a key pillar of recovery. Regular schedules help maintain physical health, emotional balance, attendance at support meetings, and connection with recovery networks. But during the holiday season schedules often change, sleep patterns shift, travel interrupts plans, and support resources may be less accessible. These disruptions can weaken protective structures and make relapse more likely.
Loneliness, Grief, and Isolation
Although holidays involve gatherings for many, they also intensify feelings of loneliness and grief for others. People who have lost loved ones, those who are estranged from family, or individuals living far from support networks may feel especially isolated during this time. Feeling alone amid a cultural narrative of “festive togetherness” can deepen emotional distress, which is a known risk factor for relapse.
Financial and Seasonal Stress
Holiday expenses and financial strain add another layer of stress. Pressure to buy gifts, travel, host meals, and meet social expectations can create anxiety or deepen feelings of inadequacy. These stressors can act as emotional triggers that make it harder to stay grounded in recovery. Seasonal changes, like less daylight and colder weather, also affect mood and energy, which can contribute to what many people experience as “holiday blues.”
Family Dynamics and Old Patterns
Holiday family gatherings bring loved ones together, but they can also resurface unresolved conflict, emotional wounds, and old behavioral patterns. Even positive traditions can be reminders of painful memories or strained relationships. These emotional responses may lead someone struggling with addiction to reach for familiar but harmful coping strategies.
Scriptural Encouragement During Hard Seasons
The Bible speaks directly to moments of struggle and emotional turmoil. Scripture reminds us that we are not alone in our pain and that God offers strength and comfort. For example, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). This promise gives hope even when the emotional load of the holidays feels heavy.
Coping Strategies for Protecting Recovery
Plan Ahead and Set Boundaries
Identify potentially triggering events early. You can choose which gatherings to attend and which to decline. Having a clear plan can help you feel grounded rather than reactive during social situations.
Maintain Routines as Much as Possible
Structure protects recovery. Try to keep sleep schedules, mealtimes, fitness routines, support meetings, and therapy appointments stable even during holiday weeks.
Build a Support System
Recovery thrives on connection. Let trusted friends, sponsors, family, or support groups know how they can encourage you during the holidays. If possible, attend meetings or check in with a sponsor regularly.
Create New Traditions
Consider establishing holiday practices that do not revolve around substance use. Sober celebrations such as potlucks, game nights, volunteer work, or nature walks can reduce exposure to common triggers while still honoring the season.
Pray and Reflect
Grounding your season in spiritual practices can shift focus from pressure to peace. Scripture reminds us “Do not be anxious about anything” (Philippians 4:6). Praying, meditating, or studying scripture can help manage stress and reinforce resilience.
Know When to Seek Additional Support
If holiday stress, loneliness, or emotional overwhelm become persistent or intensify, it’s okay to seek help. Confidential mental health and substance use support is available year-round, including 24/7 options such as the SAMHSA National Helpline or local counseling resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relapse more common during the holidays?
Relapse risk can be higher during the holidays because of emotional stress, social pressures, disrupted routines, and exposure to substances. Understanding triggers and planning ahead can help reduce this risk.
What if I feel overwhelmed by family gatherings?
It is okay to set limits on family interactions. Protecting your emotional health is an important part of recovery. Choose environments where you can maintain your boundaries and lean on supportive people.
How can I stay connected if I feel lonely?
Reach out to support groups, attend meetings, check in with a sponsor or friend, and engage in faith communities. Connection is a powerful protective factor against loneliness and relapse.
A Faith Filled Perspective on Holiday Challenges
Remember that holiday difficulty does not reflect personal failure. Hard feelings, triggers, and stress are common even among individuals in long-term recovery. The Bible encourages perseverance, reminding us that hardship can deepen our strength and compassion (James 1:2-4). Rather than pushing through alone, invite community, embrace support, and lean on your faith and recovery tools. There is hope for peace and resilience even in the season’s busiest weeks.