Alcoholics at Christmas Time

During the holidays we tend to accept a certain level of excessive drinking. We see this time of year as a chance to blow off a little steam, and finish the year with a bang. We often look back at the previous year and remember the ups and the downs. For some, the only way to cope with the downs is to turn to alcohol. During this time it allows those with an alcohol abuse problem to justify their level of consumption and a venue to drink.

There is also an increase in the number of social gathering from get togethers with family and friends, to work parties, and as a result an increased opportunity to indulge with alcohol. Another problem for those who abuse alcohol is the amount of holiday recipes that use alcohol in them. Alcoholic triggers do not just come from drinking, but can also come from food and the atmosphere around them.

So what can you do during the holidays to help those around you that struggle with alcohol? If you know someone that is trying to overcome their alcohol addiction try and find ways to help them feel included. Often times those that are trying to avoid alcohol feel as if they have been placed to a lower status and that everyone is secretly mocking them. Here are four steps you can do to help them out.

Be supportive of people who are having problems

Let them know that you understand what they are trying to do and that you support them. Having a support group of friends can help get them over the bumps and hurdles of recovery.

Don't serve alcoholic beverages

Have a party where no alcoholic beverages are served. This can be a huge change of pace for some, especially those that feel they need to drink just to get through the night. You would probably be amazed at what you would find out about other people if everyone stayed sober the whole night.

Provide lots of food

If alcoholic drinks are going to be provided, make sure there is lots of food to go with it. As the body metabolizes the food, it processed the alcohol more efficiently and it will lead to fewer people getting completely drunk. It also allows those that choose not to drink to have something to snack on while they socialize.

Have lots of activities

This step can go for both parties that will or will not have alcohol. If the party depends on alcohol and socializing then the amount of alcohol consumed will increase. By having games or other fun activities for your guests to do, it will take their mind off of drinking and preoccupy it causing their to be less intoxication.