Are you feeling stressed about the upcoming Christmas holidays? These special times aren't always synonymous with joy, as they can prove particularly challenging for those navigating difficult periods or emotional struggles. Luis Miguel Real, a psychologist, shared in a recent X post how Christmas celebrations can become a constant trial for individuals attempting to overcome an addiction.
Christmas centers on indulgence. Endless meals, back-to-back events, and expected alcohol consumption, as if it were integral to pack. And yes, the use of other substances also surfaces, frequently masked as 'partying,' 'loosening up,' or simply 'it's Christmas.' For most individuals striving to overcome addiction, this period presents the greatest challenge of the year. It's not a matter of willpower; the issue lies within the environment," the specialist noted in post.
The author of La mentira de la fuerza de voluntad and No pienses en un oso verde states that we face significant social pressure during the Christmas holidays, as we navigate environments brimming with consumption-related stimuli. This triggers memories, automatic desires, and dormant old habits within the brain.
When you find yourself surrounded by cues you previously linked to consumption, it's natural for temptation to increase. You aren't weak; you're being exposed. Furthermore, December disrupts schedules. When routines vanish, the body loses its structure, leading to greater impulsivity, increased fatigue, and a reduced ability to pause before acting," stated the expert, making it clear that, often, saying 'no' in these situations means being a "party pooper."
Familia cenando en Navidad.
Before concluding his remarks, Real clarified that Christmas also plays a role by evoking strong emotions, as family gatherings, gifts, and reunions can trigger feelings of nostalgia, financial worries, stress, and fatigue. Consequently, it's understandable that individuals who have historically coped with discomfort through consumption might be inclined to fall back into that habit.
To wrap things up, the psychologist advised that everyone should engage in self-reflection to determine which events to attend and which to skip, while also striving to maintain a consistent schedule despite the holiday commotion. Furthermore, they highlighted the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who will honor their choices.
Una época complicada
In a recent article, psychologist María José Ortolà underscored the point made by Real, elaborating that during the Christmas season, routines shift, absences become more apparent, and the body experiences a slight emotional imbalance. Meanwhile, therapist Isabel Rojas Estapé shared on Instagram that these holidays can be quite taxing, necessitating that everyone find methods to preserve their well-being.