Is Christmastime the Right Time to Start Addiction Treatment?

Why are we bringing up Christmas on November 1?

We’re doing this for a very good reason. Christmastime can be an excellent time to begin addiction recovery. For many addicts, memories of previous holiday seasons may be filled with feelings of shame, embarrassment, and disappointment. I remember leaving many family get-togethers to get drugs. I would lie about where I was going, why I was leaving, and how long I would be away. Without question, I would always come back high as a kite. If I had drugs, I was high; if I didn’t have drugs, I was angry and moody. If I was in withdrawal, I was miserable.

I have made amends with many of the people who were victims of my drug-induced behavior, but the memories are still very painful to think about.

Create New and Better Holiday Memories by Getting Clean and Sober This Holiday Season

By starting outpatient addiction treatment this November 2024, you can experience the holiday season clean and sober and create a fresh, positive memory that can motivate your recovery for all seasons to come.

Here are a few reasons we think the holiday season is a great time to start telemedicine addiction treatment:

• Safe and supportive environment: Treatment provides a structured environment that can help alleviate triggers and temptations that often accompany holiday gatherings. This allows individuals in recovery to focus solely on their well-being.  
• Avoiding triggers: The holidays can be filled with triggers from the past. Being in a treatment program can help individuals avoid these triggers and develop coping mechanisms for managing cravings and difficult emotions.  
• Building a foundation for lasting recovery: The holidays can be an emotionally charged time, and treatment can provide the support and tools needed to navigate these emotions healthily. This sets the stage for long-term success in recovery and better holiday seasons in the future.
• New Year, new start: Entering treatment during the holiday season can allow individuals to start the new year with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to recovery. Starting treatment before Christmas and New Year’s can help alleviate the pressure that is sometimes associated with setting goals and New Year’s resolutions.
• Cost-effective treatment: Many health insurance plans reset deductibles at the beginning of the year. Seeking treatment before the end of the year can result in significant cost savings for those with health insurance who have already paid their annual deductibles.

Preparing for Outpatient Addiction Treatment

Preparing for outpatient addiction treatment is a courageous step, and taking the time to get ready can significantly increase your chances of success. Here’s a breakdown of how to prepare for this important, life-changing journey:  

Practical Matters:

• Research and Choose the Right Program: Explore different treatment options (inpatient, outpatient, therapy types) and find a program that aligns with your needs, preferences, and budget. Consider factors like location, program length, and specialization.  
• Insurance and Finances: Contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage for addiction treatment. Explore payment options and financial assistance programs if needed.  
• Work and Family Obligations: Though outpatient addiction treatment is not typically disruptive to family life and work schedules, it does require a time commitment. Four weekly telemedicine visits are required after your first appointment, followed by biweekly visits for one to two months. Those who are compliant and successful in their recovery program will likely graduate to monthly visits for the remainder of their treatment. Note: Telemedicine appointments for outpatient addiction treatment usually last between 60 and 90 minutes.

Mental and Emotional Preparation:

• Acknowledge and Accept: Recognize that you’re taking a significant step towards recovery. Accept that you have a problem and are committed to addressing it. Successful recovery requires a willingness to make changes.
• Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that recovery is a journey, not a destination. There will be ups and downs, and progress takes time.  
• Build a Support System: Reach out to trusted friends, family, or support groups. Having a network of people who understand and encourage you is crucial. Consider marriage and/or family counseling to help the people closest to you understand the recovery process.
• Address Underlying Issues: If you’re struggling with co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, seek professional help to address these alongside your addiction.

Focus on Self-Care:

• Prioritize Physical Health: Get adequate sleep, eat nutritious meals, and engage in light exercise. Physical well-being supports mental and emotional strength.  
• Practice Mindfulness: Engage in relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to manage stress and anxiety.
• Reflect and Journal: Write down your thoughts and feelings about entering treatment. This can help you process emotions and clarify your goals.  
• Consider joining a group recovery program like Narcotics Anonymous. Attending regular meetings with like-minded individuals can make a big difference in the quality of your recovery. Getting a sponsor is also highly recommended.

By taking these steps to prepare for outpatient addiction treatment, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother transition and a greater chance of achieving lasting recovery. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength. You’re not alone on this journey.

Additional Considerations:

• Family support: While treatment can be beneficial during the holidays, it’s important to consider family dynamics and the potential impact on family relationships. Open communication and support from loved ones are crucial. Family and marriage therapy can play a large role in an addict’s successful recovery.
• Individual needs: The decision to seek treatment during the holidays is a personal one. It’s important to weigh the potential benefits against individual needs and circumstances.

Start Telemedicine Addiction Treatment Today with Nashville Addiction Clinic:

• Telemedicine Addiction Treatment for TennCare Medicaid Patients
• Telemedicine Addiction Treatment for Commercial Insurance Patients
• Telemedicine Addiction Treatment for Self-Pay Patients

The team at Nashville Addiction Clinic wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season.
Ps – You can have your Suboxone medications delivered to your door. (An overnight delivery fee of approximately $12 applies)