Navigating Holiday Challenges for Loved Ones in Recovery
Let's find a new and healthier way to celebrate each other, to tell each other how much we love each other, and it doesn't always have to be done over mounds of sugar and gravy, sugar and gravy.
The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration for many, but it can be a minefield for those in recovery. In this episode of 'One Hour AT A Time', host Mary Woods sits down with Jamie Fink, Chief Clinical Officer at Sierra Tucson, to discuss how to support loved ones battling addiction during this festive period. Fink sheds light on the importance of creating a supportive environment, addressing unresolved resentments, and introducing new, healthier holiday traditions.
She also highlights the benefits of continued care management and the evolving landscape of addiction treatment at Sierra Tucson. Fink acknowledges that the holidays often come with temptations and challenges, especially for those dealing with co-occurring disorders like depression, anxiety, and trauma. She stresses that family education is crucial and encourages loved ones to be mindful of the struggles their recovering family members may face.
By fostering an environment where individuals in recovery feel comfortable expressing their needs and boundaries, families can better support their loved ones. One key takeaway from Fink's discussion is the role of continued care management. Sierra Tucson offers a service called 'Connections', which provides dedicated case management for a year to patients and their families. This service allows family members to consult with a case manager on how to best support their loved one during the holidays and beyond.
Fink also touches on the importance of addressing underlying resentments that can trigger relapse. By confronting and letting go of these resentments, individuals in recovery can build stronger, healthier relationships with their loved ones. Additionally, Fink emphasizes the need to address co-occurring disorders like eating disorders alongside addiction treatment. Introducing new holiday traditions such as gratitude practices and mindfulness activities can also make a significant difference.
This episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to support a recovering loved one during the holiday season.
Listen in for practical advice and heartfelt guidance.