Author: IAFF Staff

December 8, 2019

During the holiday season, Christmas tree fires, impaired drivers and large public gatherings are just some of the threats to public safety that fire fighters and paramedics encounter. 

If you’re a fire fighter or paramedic in recovery from drug or alcohol addiction, you face the additional challenge of maintaining your wellness and sobriety during the busiest time of the year. Entering a burning building requires a systematic approach, and navigating holiday stressors that threaten your sobriety is no different:

1. Connect with your recovery supports today

Now is not the time to skip recovery meetings, check-ins with your sponsor or routine appointments with your individual therapist. Work, family or social commitments may already leave you feeling stretched thin. Regular check-ins with your support system provide crucial emotional support and accountability, which are necessary to sustain the progress you’ve already made. Try creating a written schedule for the next week to identify where meetings or appointments will fit between shifts. 

2. Don’t forget the basics

Whether you have been sober one month or one year, the age-old recovery acronym, H.A.L.T., should stay front and center this holiday season. Anticipate times of the day or week that you are likely to become Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired. A daily reality for anyone on shift work, these vulnerable physical and emotional states are also common scenarios that can trigger a relapse. Do your best to build in rest and relaxation, balanced nutrition, ways to blow off steam and moments to connect with others into your week. If you need help organizing a plan, ask someone you trust.  

3. Choose parties wisely and bring a friend

In agreeing to attend a holiday party or gathering, be honest with yourself — is this appropriate for your stage of recovery? If you’re unsure, get a reality check from a sober friend, sponsor or your counselor. If you do agree to attend, bring a trusted friend who will help you stay on track. Consider bringing your own pre-made, non-alcoholic beverage and leave whenever you feel ready. Don’t offer to be the designated driver, as hanging around late while everyone parties can put you in a vulnerable situation.

4. Balance selfish with selfless

For many fire fighters or paramedics, putting others first is a source of meaning, pride and identity. Conversely, being in recovery often means putting yourself first by setting boundaries and saying no to people you care about. Staying sober doesn’t mean you must alienate yourself from the world; sobriety means getting creative. If you decline to attend a friend’s party, consider dropping off a dish beforehand instead, or asking them to meet up for breakfast later in the week. This holiday season, look for formal and informal opportunities to say you care — with your crew, neighbors, church or family.  

5. Be wary of rationalizations to drink or use

During the holiday season – or any busy time of the year – it can be easy to let your guard down. Attempts to normalize or justify a drink, such as, “I deserve to unwind too,” or “One drink in honor of our lost brother,” can be a slippery slope to full-blown relapse. For every excuse you can think of to drink or use, write down a reason you are committed to recovery. Keep this list accessible in your pocket, bedside or phone and review it regularly.

If these sobriety strategies seem unrealistic or impossible for you this holiday season, it may be time to get help in a supportive environment with other brothers and sisters who share your struggles.

If you or someone you know needs help addressing a mental health condition or addiction this holiday season, resources are available. The IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery is a comprehensive treatment center designed exclusively for IAFF members struggling with addiction, PTSD and other co-occurring mental health problems. Call today for a free and confidential screening.

Lauren Kosc, M.A., LCPC is a behavioral health specialist, clinician and blog editor for the International Association of Fire Fighters. If you are an IAFF member in recovery and want to share your story, contact lkosc@iaff.org.