Healing Isn’t a Task - It’s a Practice

Those who’ve experienced the holidays as a sober person will likely attest that alcohol and substances are synonymous with American holidays. Beer, liquor, wine, and champagne are casually served at corporate events, holiday parties, family dinners and given as gifts. With so many people participating, those who can’t participate may feel a sense of exclusion, obligation or some other social pressure.

Today, our focus is on trauma. Jason Farmer of Recovery Allies talks about the causes of trauma, the effect of trauma on families, the path to addiction that many follow, and possible remedies.

Though it is natural to reflect or project intention in order to learn and achieve, many people struggle to fully connect to the present moment. There are a multitude of reasons a person may experience this struggle. But even the most balanced of us can become overly fixated on the past or fret for the future from time to time.

Substance abuse disorder and mental health challenges are vast and vexing issues to many with a loved one caught in their throes. Over time, it is extremely common for those supporting someone in active addiction to begin adapting to their patterns and creating “solutions” for the challenges their dilemma presents.

New Year’s is a holiday loaded with implications for sufferers of substance abuse disorder. The societal focus on drinking, partying and overstimulation on NYE can feel isolating to those trying to maintain their sobriety. Further, the belief that a new year equals some kind of need for massive change can cause confusion, depression, and possible relapse among those who are already on a sober path.