Janice Arnoldi

Life Unscripted - Stories of Mental Health and Addiction

Janice Arnoldi

  • Tips to Avoid Drinking During the December Party Season

Tips to Avoid Drinking During the December Party Season

Friday 12th December 2025

Practical tips for avoiding alcohol during holiday parties with Janice Rutgers. Learn how to plan ahead and navigate social pressures.
23 minutes
Informative
Supportive
Encouraging
Inspiring
Compassionate

About this podcast

Life Unscripted - Stories of Mental Health and Addiction
Author:
Janice Arnoldi
Overview:
Categories:
Sobriety Toolkit
Body & Mind
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Parenting & Children
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Surviving the Holiday Party Season: Tips for Staying Sober

Episode Overview

  • Have a plan before attending holiday gatherings.
  • Offer non-alcoholic options to make events inclusive.
  • Understand personal triggers and prepare responses.
  • Stay connected to support systems and community.
  • Recognise that addiction is a brain disorder, not a moral failing.
"The opposite of addiction is definitely connection."
How do people find strength in their journey to sobriety? The holiday season, often synonymous with indulgence, can be particularly challenging for those in recovery. In this episode, Janice Arnoldi is joined by Janice Rutgers, Executive Director of Community Addiction Services of Niagara, to share some practical and compassionate tips for navigating the festive period without succumbing to alcohol. They discuss the immense pressure to drink at parties and how it can be a minefield for those in early recovery.
Rutgers offers a wealth of advice, starting with the importance of having a plan before attending any gatherings. Whether it's knowing your exit strategy or having a supportive friend on standby, preparation is key. For hosts, she suggests offering non-alcoholic options to make gatherings inclusive for everyone. The conversation also touches on the emotional complexities of facing family expectations and societal pressures during this time.
The discussion isn't just about saying no to alcohol but understanding the triggers and finding strength in community support. The hosts explore the idea that addiction is more than just a personal struggle; it's about connection and understanding one's needs. The episode wraps up with an optimistic view on how awareness and education about addiction are growing, offering hope for a more supportive society.
So, whether you're in recovery or just looking to cut back, these insights might be just what you need to face the holiday season with confidence. How will you prepare for the festive season this year?
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