11/26/2025
The holidays can be beautiful—but they can also be challenging for anyone in recovery. Here are some practical ways to prevent relapse and stay connected to hope this season:
🙏 Pray first. Ask God for strength and direction. Use a mantra like “NOT TODAY, SATAN” or lean on Scripture.
📝 Take a daily inventory. Be honest about where you struggled so you can make things right and stay on track.
📱 Reach out. Call your sponsor or accountability partner. Ask for prayer. Don’t battle your thoughts alone.
🤝 Stay in community. Make meetings a priority—especially when you “don’t feel like it.” The opposite of relapse is connection.
🔍 Think it through. Do a chain analysis. What are the consequences? How will you feel afterward?
🚫 Avoid triggers. Stay away from unsafe people, places, and things. Flee temptation—stop it at the thought level.
🏃 Move your body. Walk, run, dance—get your heart rate up to break cravings.
👨👩👧 Be with safe people. If family isn’t safe, spend time with your CR or church family. You don’t have to do the holidays alone.
📖 Fill your mind with truth. Read Scripture when tempted.
🎶 Distract wisely. Praise music, Christian movies, clean comedy, games—keep your mind engaged in good things.
💛 Practice gratitude. Write down three things daily you’re thankful for.
🙌 Serve others. Volunteer, encourage someone, share kindness.
😴 Rest well. Keep routines, get enough sleep, and protect your structure.
🛡️ Use accountability tools. Block unsafe contacts and keep your tech guarded.
🎉 Finish 2025 strong. You’ve come too far. Choose joy—“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)
Recovery is possible—even during the holidays. Stay connected. Stay intentional. And remember: with God’s help, you are not fighting this alone. 💙