Eat, Don’t Drink, and Be Merry: Celebrating the Season in Treatment

For those spending the holidays in treatment, it is important to recognize this time of year as being one that is likely difficult for most in our program. Those with substance use disorders often find themselves struggling with managing emotions properly, upholding strong interpersonal relationships, and unable to establish and utilize coping skills that keep them from going back to drug or alcohol use.

The holidays are known for being highly triggering because of the emotions it can produce and the situations people may find themselves in. With that in mind, here at River Oaks we strive to not only offer a fun and festive holiday experience for patients, but also extra support and care at this time.

Spending the Holidays in Treatment

Those who are in treatment during the holidays often wish they could be spending their time elsewhere, and understandably so. However, there is great importance in supporting continuity of care for individuals recovering from addiction, as doing so can help them remain sober for much longer. The idea of recovery being an investment in the future doesn’t usually give patients the creature comforts they desire during the holiday season, but at River Oaks, we strive to make this time of year one that is warm, loving, and enjoyable as possible.

Therapeutic Support during the Holiday Season 

With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, our team of dedicated and compassionate mental health professionals and addiction specialists are prepared to provide an extra layer of care to help support the challenges our patients may experience.

We understand that major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas can trigger the onset of recalling traumatic experiences and having feelings associated with grief, loss, loneliness, and more. Our therapeutic team will work with each patient to address any challenges that develop in response to Thanksgiving and what this holiday means to them. We also encourage continued family connection in those situations that warrant it, while also protecting the emotional needs of each patient, so that the holiday can be celebrated in a comfortable manner for all.

Holiday Festivities at River Oaks

While one of our primary goals is to help patients safely and effectively establish their footing in recovery, we also feel it just as important to have them engage in festivities during the holidays. Relearning how to “do” the holidays in a sober fashion can come with its challenges, but that is why we are here to help.

This year, we are pleased to offer patients fun activities to do daily, helping to provide a festive environment that is also inclusive and fun. These activities include having holiday movie nights, making cards, decorating, and much more. We will also be offering special visitation for these holidays, including this week for Thanksgiving Day. Immediate family members are invited to come visit with their loved one and enjoy coffee and dessert.

We work hard to help families keep holiday traditions alive and help them maintain their connections with one another throughout the year, but especially during the Holidays. We ask for your continued support and cooperation as we look to make this holiday season one to remember.

If you or someone you love is in need of help with substance misuse, do not waste one more day. Call us at River Oaks right now at to get connected to an admissions navigator who can help you begin the process. At our inpatient rehab in Florida, we can get you or your loved one on the right path towards a happy, substance-free life.