Detox for the Holidays

During the holidays, the likelihood of alcohol and drug abuse in social situations is much higher and the number of drug and alcohol overdoses increases dramatically.^1,2 Although there are many positive things about the season’s celebrations and activities, it can also be a very difficult time for some people. Excessive drinking is often portrayed as the norm and the nature of many American holiday traditions can make it difficult for people in recovery to stay sober.

If you or someone you love needs more than detox, Briarwood Detox Center also provides rehab in austin texas.

If you’re struggling to stay sober this holiday season, going to treatment may be the last thing you want to do. Detox and rehab can be physically and emotionally challenging, and being stuck in a treatment facility on Christmas and New Year’s may not be your idea of fun. However, choosing detox for the holidays comes with several great benefits with lasting, life-changing benefits that are well worth it.

Medical detox for drug and alcohol addiction is an excellent first step to addiction recovery at any time of the year, but choosing to go to detox during the holidays has some unique benefits of its own.

• Safe and effective detox: Quitting cold turkey may seem like an ideal solution, but it can ultimately result in more severe and long-lasting withdrawal symptoms which may also increase the likelihood that you will relapse. Medical drug detox programs provide safe and effective treatment to help you get sober without enduring extremely painful or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. Medical professionals are on-site to administer medication that will reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms and clinical treatment is also provided to address the psychological side effects of detox, such as anxiety or depression.
• A fresh start to a new year: Going to detox during the holidays is ideal timing because it gives you the chance to start 2020 off right. Heading into a new year with a clean slate and a clear mind is a great way to start making some positive changes in your life. Detox is just the start, but it’s an important step to take and it will serve as the foundation of your recovery journey.
• Support and community: Many people who are addicted spend the holidays alone because friends and family members have all given up hope that they will ever get sober. If this is the case for you, there is still hope. While you’re in detox, you’ll be supported by a compassionate team of professionals and an understanding group of peers who are working to change and, ultimately, are fighting hard to save their own lives, just like you. Detox is an opportunity to heal, learn, and grow alongside others in recovery as you discover the value of having a supportive community.
• Emotional and spiritual discovery: Drug and alcohol detox is a highly physical process, but it can also be emotional and spiritual for some. Once the cloudiness has cleared from your mind and body, you may begin to realize that the holidays aren’t defined by any certain activities or gifts. They aren’t about binging on drugs and alcohol, and they aren’t about running away from your past either. Instead, this time of year is all about togetherness, serving others, and an internal sense of peace and joy that can’t be found in material items.
• Social activities: During detox, if you feel well enough to participate in social activities, clients typically get together and enjoy games, a meal, and good discussion, so you won’t feel alone on Christmas or New Year’s Eve after all. In fact, it’s a great opportunity to share your story, listen to others talk about their own experiences with addiction, relax, and start building sober friendships with activities that don’t involve drugs or alcohol.

Starting detox during the holidays is a courageous step toward lasting recovery. Briarwood Detox Center offers comprehensive support to help you or your loved one navigate this journey safely and effectively.

• Avoid Relapse Triggers This Holiday Season – Learn practical strategies to protect your sobriety during high-risk holiday situations.
• Why the Holidays Are the Perfect Time to Start Your Recovery Journey – Discover the unique advantages of beginning treatment during the holiday season.
• 5 Tips for Getting Through a Breakup Sober – Find support for managing emotional challenges while maintaining sobriety.
• How to Support a Loved One in Drug and Alcohol Detox – Guidance for families helping someone through the detox process.

If you're ready to begin your recovery journey this holiday season, contact Briarwood Detox Center at (866) 710-7710 to speak with our admissions team about our medically supervised detox programs in Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Colorado Springs.