The holidays are supposed to be festive and joyous, but for those
recovering from addiction, it can often be the most challenging time of year.
"They may get invited to parties or the person they are living with may want to have a party," said Steve Carrel, an addiction specialist. "That can cause a conflict for someone who has a
substance abuse problem."
Depression often strikes hard during the holidays. Everyday stresses are only magnified in December, and the smallest trigger can result in an
addict using drugs or alcohol once again.
"It can be them hearing a Christmas song or seeing decorations," Carrel said. "For some people, those memories can trigger past memories that aren't so happy. They may have been abused or neglected. That in turn triggers them to use."
The many holiday parties only add to the pressure and addicts often attend and try to ignore their addiction.
"That's where they can get into trouble. They think they can control it, but then everyone there is doing it, so they think, well, maybe just one. And it starts again."
