If you or a loved one is struggling with overuse of alcohol or drugs, and you know you would benefit from getting into a treatment program, do it now. Don’t wait until the new year. It’s tempting to tell yourself that you’ll continue to drink or use drugs through the holiday season and “get clean” in January, but this is problematic for several reasons, and the benefits of going to rehab in November and December far outweigh the inconveniences.
Let’s look at the top five reasons to enter treatment now.
- It’s probably a better deal financially.
If your insurance covers or partially covers a residential addiction treatment program, and if you have a deductible, chances are that by November or December you’ll have already met the year’s deductible and will not have as much out-of-pocket cost for treatment. At Las Cruces Recovery Center, we accept most insurances, including Medicaid. If you’re not sure your insurance will cover treatment, call our admissions office and let us help you work with your insurance company to determine your coverage.
- It might be easier to take time off work.
Unless you work in retail or another job that sees extra business over the holidays, these last two months of the year might be an easier time to miss work. Many businesses and schools close or reduce their hours during the holidays. Your employer may even offer paid time off during the holidays, making it an ideal time to be in treatment.
- Your family won’t have to worry about your safety.
While some members of your family may put up resistance to your being away during the holiday season, those who know and love you well will probably feel some relief. The holidays are stressful enough without having to worry that a person you love will get themselves into trouble–or cause undue chaos and tension at family gatherings. When you are in a residential treatment program, you have zero access to alcohol or drugs and are surrounded by doctors, nurses, therapists, and other staff who are doing everything they can to help you succeed.
- You’ll avoid the most triggering time of year.
Not only will your family feel relieved that you’re safe during the holidays, but you’ll likely feel this relief, too–at least after you’ve been through detox and are able to think more clearly. The holidays are not easy for someone who is struggling with addiction. Being around family more often than usual can bring back difficult or even traumatic memories of holidays past, either because you have behaved poorly or because a particular family dynamic (or a specific person) causes you stress or has mistreated you.
This is also a time of year when stress levels rise in response to everyone’s expectations of you and the pressures to make this holiday better than the last. Financial worries may spring up, with all of the gift exchange requirements. When you’re in a residential treatment program, you are in a different world–one that supports your healing. Being in treatment gives you a chance to distance yourself from holiday and family stress and focus on yourself.
- You’ll survive the holidays–literally.
Substance use increases during the holidays, and excess drug and alcohol consumption can lead to alcohol poisoning, overdose, traffic accidents, falls, fights, risky behavior, and impaired decision-making. Binge drinking can lead to increased risk of injuries, violence, and alcohol dependence. If you’re going into the holiday season with an active addiction, the excess of the holidays can trigger even heavier use, possibly leading to fatal overdose. Being in a treatment program keeps you safe–literally. Yes, detox is hard on the body, but going through withdrawal in a medically supervised program ensures your physical safety and helps alleviate the emotional, mental, and psychological symptoms.
Enter the New Year With a Fresh Start
While missing out on holiday celebrations this year might cause some sadness, getting sober now will set you on the path to have many happy, healthy holiday celebrations in the future. And while you’re in rehab this year, you’ll meet people like you who are choosing to put their health first. You’ll celebrate the holidays in rehab, free of substances, and the friendships you develop may stay with you for life, encouraging and motivating you to stay sober.
The best part? You’ll emerge from treatment with the resources and energy you need to rebuild relationships with your family. You might even decide to host a post-recovery celebration, a substance-free belated holiday party with those you love most.
Enjoy a Sober Holiday with Las Cruces Recovery Center
If you’re feeling confused or anxious about treatment but know you need help, contact our team here in Las Cruces, NM, and let us help you make a decision you feel good about. We offer a full continuum of care, from medical detox to residential treatment to an aftercare program that includes regular fellowship with alumni. Don’t let another holiday go by in a miserable cloud of anxiety and pain. We can help. Contact us today to get your journey started.
