Holidays and celebrations throughout the year – from Fourth of July barbecues and Labor Day picnics to Memorial Day gatherings and summer vacations – can present unique challenges for individuals in recovery from substance abuse disorder (SUD) and their families. These events often include environments where alcohol and substances are present, peer or social pressure to join in, changes to daily routines, and travel or family situations that may trigger stress. Even when the occasion is meant to be joyful, the combination of potential triggers and disrupted support systems can make it a difficult time for those working to maintain sobriety and for families trying to provide support.
The crisis of SUD affects more than 48 million people aged 12 or older across the United States. More than a million North Carolinians have been diagnosed with SUD.
Holidays and celebrations can be particularly challenging for families affected by SUD as well. What should be a time for connection and enjoyment often becomes a period of increased stress, social pressure, and uncertainty. Events may involve alcohol or other triggers, routines may be disrupted, and travel or family dynamics can add to the emotional strain. The expectation to “join in” can leave loved ones feeling conflicted and alone.
Recovery from SUD is a challenging journey that has a higher likelihood of success with ongoing support, resources, and connection to others who understand. Many individuals in recovery and their families face isolation and loneliness, stigma, and limited access to treatment and support networks, making it difficult to maintain progress and build lasting sobriety. During celebratory times, these challenges can become even more intense, especially when events are centered around drinking or when supportive routines are interrupted.
24/7 Support During Holiday Celebrations
To help strengthen recovery outcomes during these challenging times, NCDHHS is offering two evidence-based smartphone apps: Connections for people in recovery, and Companion for their families, friends, and loved ones.
Connections: Always Available Support
Connections offers an ever-present digital support system to people in recovery. This peer-powered platform includes moderated discussion forums, virtual support group meetings, daily check-ins, motivational content, and educational resources. The app provides 24/7 support and crisis response features to ensure support is always available when needed. The app is offered in English and Spanish.
When individuals in recovery are connected to peer support and evidence-based resources, multiple benefits occur, including improved treatment engagement, better coping strategies, and, most importantly, stronger long-term recovery outcomes. With peer support and accessible resources, people with SUD are more likely to maintain their recovery goals, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and successfully navigate high-risk situations that often come with holidays and celebrations.
Companion: Support for Families
The Companion app connects families, friends, and loved ones of people with SUD to a digital community of their peers, virtual support group meetings, a library of content for education, inspiration, and guidance, and additional resources.
When families and friends are supported, multiple benefits occur, including improved family functioning, better communication, and stronger positive outcomes for the person with SUD. Receiving support from a community of peers provides a great source of strength, minimizing the stigma and shame that often surround addiction. During times when social gatherings and celebrations are common, this peer support can be a vital lifeline, empowering individuals to enjoy the moment while staying committed to their recovery.
How to Access These Resources
Both apps are made available to all North Carolinians by NCDHHS. There is no cost to access.
For individuals in recovery, click the link or scan to access the Connections app: http://signup.connectionsapp.com/?token=VwLRC
For families and loved ones, click the link or scan to access: https://signup.companion.health/?token=OTtM0
Article and photo contributed by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.
