09 Dec Managing Alcohol Abuse During Festive Family Gatherings: Tips for a Healthier Holiday Season

Journey Recovery & Wellness Centre

Spokesperson: Melandrie Bridges (Psychological Counsellor)

As the festive season approaches, excitement builds around reconnecting with family, catching up into the early hours, and indulging in family traditions. However, alcohol abuse can quickly disrupt even the most carefully planned gatherings, leading to impaired judgment, emotional instability, increased conflict, and risky behaviours such as driving under the influence (DUI). If not managed effectively, these situations can leave lasting emotional scars, including trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Journey Recovery and Wellness Centre is dedicated to providing holistic support to individuals seeking to improve their mental health and well-being. With a focus on personalized care, the centre offers a range of services, including counselling, wellness programs, and educational resources aimed at empowering clients to lead balanced, fulfilling lives.

Psychological Counsellor, Meandrie Bridges, shares helpful insights on how to navigate festive family gatherings while minimizing the risks of alcohol-related issues.

Before and During the Gathering:

• Set Clear Expectations: Discuss boundaries and expectations with family members ahead of time to ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Designate a Sober Host/Champion: Choose someone responsible for ensuring everyone’s safety while remaining sober throughout the event.
• Plan Activities: Organize fun activities that don’t involve substance use, such as games or outdoor adventures, to keep everyone engaged and connected.

During the Gathering:

• Monitor Alcohol Use: Keep an eye on the amount of alcohol being consumed and step in if needed to prevent escalation.
• Offer a Variety of Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Provide tasty, non-alcoholic options and encourage guests to drink them.
• Watch for Signs of Impairment: Be alert to signs like slurred speech, stumbling, or aggressive behaviour, and intervene early to prevent further issues.
• Intervene Early: If someone shows signs of impairment, address the situation before it escalates, offering support where necessary.

Over and above boundaries should be respected regarding alcohol and focusing on the positive i.e., shared values and family traditions to bring everyone together. Lastly, having support from the matriarch or patriarch of the family garners support faster and makes efforts more sustainable.