Holiday Boundaries & Planning Guide
For individuals in recovery — and the people who support them.
⭐ 1. Know Your Non-Negotiables
-
Decide what you will and won’t participate in (events, people, environments).
-
Identify triggers and plan alternatives.
-
Share your boundaries with one or two trusted supporters.
-
Supporters: Ask what feels supportive and what doesn’t — don’t assume.
⭐ 2. Make a Personal Holiday Plan
-
Map out which events you’ll attend and which you’ll skip.
-
Build in recovery time before and after gatherings.
-
Identify a “safe exit plan” if you need to leave early.
-
Supporters: Offer to be the getaway ride or check-in buddy.
⭐ 3. Prepare Responses in Advance
Have simple phrases ready to reduce pressure or awkwardness:
-
“Thanks for the invite — I’ll need to pass this year.”
-
“I’m keeping my holidays low-key to protect my recovery.”
-
“I’m not drinking tonight, but I’m glad to be here.”
-
Supporters: Say things like, “No pressure — whatever feels right for you.”
⭐ 4. Protect Your Time & Energy
-
Prioritize events that feel safe, supportive, and meaningful.
-
Limit overwhelming environments — large crowds, late nights, chaotic settings.
-
Schedule downtime and self-care like meetings, quiet mornings, or walks.
-
Supporters: Make space for breaks without judgment.
⭐ 5. Build a Support Network for the Season
-
Let your sponsor or Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) know your holiday schedule.
-
Identify 2–3 people you can call if things feel tough.
-
Share your plan with someone attending events with you.
-
Supporters: Check in before and after big holiday moments.
⭐ 6. Bring Your Own Safe Options
-
Alcohol-free drinks, snacks, or grounding items (journals, fidgets, etc.).
-
A drive-yourself strategy so you control your arrival and exit.
-
Supporters: Normalize alcohol-free choices — offer them without asking why.
⭐ 7. Create New Traditions
-
Movie nights, baking, volunteering, holiday lights walks.
-
Recovery meetings or gratitude circles.
-
Quiet gatherings with trusted friends or family.
-
Supporters: Join in new traditions that feel safe and meaningful.
⭐ 8. Have a Holiday “What If?” Plan
Prepare for:
-
Seeing people who don’t respect your boundaries
-
Emotional triggers
-
Unexpected invitations
-
Family tension or grief
-
Feeling overwhelmed
Your “what if” plan may include:
-
Stepping outside
-
Calling a support
-
Leaving early
-
Redirecting conversations
-
Asking someone to intervene
-
Supporters: Ask, “If something feels off today, how can I support you?”
⭐ 9. Celebrate Your Progress
-
Acknowledge how far you’ve come — even if the season feels hard.
-
Give yourself permission to choose the healthiest option, even if it disappoints others.
-
Supporters: Celebrate their boundaries, not their attendance.
⭐ 10. Remember: Your Recovery Comes First
-
You don’t owe anyone explanations that compromise your peace.
-
Your well-being is the priority.
-
Supporters: Affirm this out loud — it makes a difference.
Recovery is a journey — and you deserve support at every step.
If you need a safe place to talk, connect with others, or just take a breath, the LSH Recovery Community Center is here for you. 💙
You’re building a life you can thrive in. Keep choosing yourself.