For many, the holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year. But for people impacted by addiction, the holidays can bring on feelings of stress, discomfort and isolation. Changes in routine, family gatherings and financial demands can all be major stressors.
In fact, the CDC estimates December and January to be the most dangerous times of the year for drug-and-alcohol-related deaths.
“Recovery during the holidays can be a challenge, but help is always available,” said Vanessa Keeton, vice president of marketing at ARC. “The Addiction Recovery Care helpline is open for calls 24/7, 365 days a year. The decision to seek treatment can be fleeting, and we know any delays can be the difference between life and death.”
If you are in recovery, the experts at ARC recommend thinking ahead and making a plan before attending any holiday events or gatherings. Consider driving separately or bringing a supportive friend.
“Having a strong support system of family, friends and peers, while keeping as much as consistency in routine as possible, is critical to long-term recovery all year long, but especially during the holidays,” added Keeton.
If you have a family member or loved one struggling with addiction, focus on enabling recovery. Show them love and support, encourage treatment, make time for sober fun and set boundaries.
Addiction remains one of our most pressing public health crises. A record-breaking 107,000 lost their lives to drug overdoses in 2021. Fortunately, in Kentucky, treatment is more accessible than ever.
ARC operates a network of over 30 residential and outpatient programs that serve approximately 2,000 people each day. ARC delivers “Treatment on Demand,” meaning they have beds available now and that there are no delays when someone makes the decision to pursue treatment. ARC can also provide transportation if you or your loved one is ready to go to treatment but has no way to get there.
“The best gift for someone struggling with a substance use disorder is the gift of recovery,” said Jason Merrick, vice president of program development at ARC. “Help is available today, and ARC can help you get the comprehensive treatment you need to lead a healthy, meaningful life, free from addiction.”
If you or a loved one is ready to seek treatment this holiday season, call 888-351-1761.
Addiction Recovery Care (ARC) operates a network of more than 38 addiction treatment centers in 16 Eastern and Central Kentucky counties. The organization, headquartered in Louisa, Kentucky, offers a full continuum of care including withdrawal management, long-term residential treatment, intensive outpatient, outpatient, medically assisted treatment (MAT), vocational rehabilitation and job training. The treatment centers are holistic with CARF-accredited clinical programs, medical services directed by an addiction psychiatrist, a spiritual emphasis that includes the 12 steps and chaplaincy care and a broadening scope of vocational training opportunities for clients.
ARC has a focus on providing Treatment on Demand to ensure individuals receive treatment immediately without delay. This process includes quick enrollment into programs and transportation provided by ARC to one of our facilities. Individuals will have a clinical and medical assessment within 24 hours of arrival.