Surviving the Holidays While Sober
Have you recently failed a drug and/or alcohol test and been removed from your safety-sensitive functions? Are you looking for SAP programs in Florida to start the return to duty process? Wherever you are in the return to duty process, it’s paramount to remain sober during the holidays so that you can return to your safety-sensitive duties and get back to work.
Although the holidays are usually happy occasions that unite friends and family, there are moments of intense anxiety and stress, especially if you’re recovering from addiction. Even the best SAP programs will only function as a tool to help the recovering addict stay sober. However, despite the risks of relapse running especially high during the holiday season, they aren’t inevitable. Being aware of your environment, knowing what triggers you, and practicing a few control techniques are all you need to overcome the risk of relapsing during the holidays.
Why Remaining Sober During Holidays is Difficult
The holidays can inspire intense feelings of loneliness and isolation in people who don’t have many friends or family members. For those who have a lot of friends and family, the risk is amplified during parties and holiday festivities where alcohol is commonly served.
1. Routine Changes
When people don’t adhere to their typical routines, their lack of structure and consistency may transfer to their sobriety regiment.
2. Parties
As mentioned earlier, alcohol is commonly served at holiday get togethers. Depending on the social circle, drugs may be present as well.
3. Stress
The anxiety that comes with strained family relationships (especially among recovering addicts), is often too much to handle. Seeing family or friends can also trigger feelings of guilt or shame, which can lead to relapse.
How Can SAP Programs in Florida, or Anywhere Nationwide, Help You Remain Sober
While going through the return to duty process with your qualified SAP, you will be given a recommended treatment and/or education program to follow. These programs are tailored to your specific substance misuse issues and will help you become more aware of your sobriety. They may help you:
- Keep awareness of likely triggers.
- Depend on a reliable system of support.
- Maintain self-care.
- Prepare responses to triggering questions.
How to Get Back on Track After Failing a Drug Test in a DOT-Regulated Industry – Find a SAP Program in Florida or Anywhere Nationwide
Only successfully completing the return-to-duty process under a DOT-qualified SAP will get you back on track to returning to safety-sensitive work. Enrolling in a program quickly after your failed drug and/or alcohol test is highly-recommended.
Contact SRS today for enrolling into a SAP program in Florida, or anywhere nationwide. We can help you prepare for return-to-duty and ward off a holiday relapse.