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How to Navigate Festive Triggers
  • December 24, 2024
  • Comments: 64
  • Posted by: cbtkeadmin

The festive season is often a time of joy and celebration, but it can also bring heightened risks of alcohol misuse, relapse, and the possibility of dependency. By being mindful of consumption, recognizing triggers, and applying coping skills, we can navigate these challenges without compromising our well-being.

Alcohol is one of the most widely misused substances globally. According to a 2019 World Health Organization (WHO) report, 400 million people aged 15 years and above live with alcohol use disorders, while 209 million struggle with dependency.

Despite these alarming statistics, global interventions remain insufficient, with limited access to standardized screening, outpatient care, inpatient rehabilitation centres and community programs.

Genetics play a significant role in determining alcohol use or dependency. Individuals lacking the alcohol metabolizing genes ADH1B and ALDH2 may find it easier to adhere to recommended limits but, over time, may still develop tendencies to abuse alcohol that eventually lead to alcohol dependence, while those with the genes cannot control the drink behaviors commonly referred to as alcohol dependence.

Difference between use and dependence

Another common but not spoken term is binge drinking, where excessive amounts of alcohol are consumed in a short period during weekends and holidays. This pattern often leads to medical emergencies, alcohol poisoning, road accidents, physical altercations and relationship problems.

During the festive season, copious amounts of alcoholic beverages are common at get-togethers and parties; hence, the possibility of over-drinking is higher than usual. A seemingly harmless sip to gain “liquid courage” or manage anxieties about expressing yourself in social situations can begin as celebratory indulgence and quickly escalate into overindulgence or, even worse, dangerous episodes of late-night emergencies.

The festive season can be particularly challenging for those recovering from alcohol dependence or with mental health concerns; others without an existing problem may drink alcohol to test their will to celebrate the once-in-a-blue-moon season only to backfire, leading to a plethora of emotional, psychological, spiritual and social turmoil.

While some comfortably drink in moderation, overindulgence can trigger the beginning of a long-term problem. The presence of support, self-monitoring and attention to warning signs can avert spiraling into an unhealthy pattern. The festive season poses unique challenges for those in recovery.

As such, awareness of triggers such as people, festive music, and conversations can prevent jeopardizing sobriety and well-being. Relapse often begins in the mind before the first sip, and whether to drink or not drink is a personal choice based on your circumstances. Hence, knowing the self, recognizing and managing triggers in time is crucial.

Coping strategies learned in therapy are critical at this time of year. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, personal mantras, and 24-hour support groups can be invaluable in navigating situations. Substituting alcohol with non-alcoholic beverages, maintaining self-awareness and situation awareness are equally important. Supporting loved ones on their recovery journey is one of the greatest gifts we can give during this time.

Listening and understanding with a nonjudgmental attitude can go a long way during the season. Therefore, if you drink this season, do so responsibly, or better yet, consider abstaining altogether. While at it, be mindful of those struggling not to take the first sip!

Happy holidays to you and your family!

addiction, CBT Kenya, Counselling services in Nairobi, How to Navigate Festive Triggers, Psychologists in Nairobi, Therapists in Lavington
Author: cbtkeadmin

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