The holidays are a time of join and togetherness, but they are also a time of stress and depression. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, stress is one of the leading causes of drug and alcohol abuse. The holidays are one of the most stressful times for some, particularly if they are in recovery but there are places to turn to if you feel that you are out of control or are going to relapse.

1. Outpatient Clinics

If you were in an outpatient program to get off drugs, chances are that program is still available. Call them and they will get you back into counseling. Many counseling centers are open over the holidays because of the stress associated with them. If you are still in counseling, simply ask you counselor what the holiday hours are or if they have a holiday help program. They also might have a crisis line and a crisis center set up for those who need it.

2. Local Community Centers

Many community centers offer holiday crisis help as well as information on meeting places such as Narcotics Anonymous. Some community centers have ongoing activities during the holidays that you can be a part of if you are not in crisis. Sometimes keeping busy during the holiday season can help when your are considering starting to use drugs again. Most community centers have counseling and crisis resources for those in need of them.

3. Friends and Family

If you are close to relapse, do not forget your support structure. Your friends and family can be your best resource. When you just need to talk your support structure is the best to turn to at times. They can also help to distract you from the stress that you are feeling. Talking to them and explaining that you need to be doing something can help you achieve the distraction you need.

4. Volunteer

During the holiday season, there are hundreds of volunteer opportunities. You can volunteer at:

• homeless shelters,
• domestic violence shelters,
• children’s homes,
• group houses,
• animal shelters,
• churches, and
• other community organizations.

There are many places that seek volunteers for the holiday season, particularly if you are willing to help on the actual holiday. Many of the shelters are glad to have the extra hands. There are also places that deliver food and presents to the homeless and disadvantaged that can use your services. Keeping busy helping others can help you avoid relapse.

5. Checking in to an Inpatient Clinic

If you have already relapsed or are sure that you will relapse, speak to an inpatient clinic in your area. They do not close on holidays and can help you if you are in need of a safe place away from drugs. This is usually only a last resort. For more information in inpatient clinics and other holiday resources call us at 800-934-1582(Who Answers?) .