Avoid pitfalls of excessive alcohol use during holidays

The holiday season can bring joy and stress, which create an unhealthy temptation to drink a lot of alcohol. During the festive season, some drink to celebrate and socialize, while others drink excessively because it may help them feel less depressed, alone, bored, or fit in.

It can be challenging to avoid the pitfalls of excessive alcohol use during the holidays and refusing alcohol in social situations—but not impossible. There are practical approaches anyone can use to turn down a drink, whether young, middle-aged, or senior. The key to success is to practice saying ‘no’, whether it is a legitimate reason or a wild made-up excuse.

Try saying, “No thank you,” “I’m driving tonight,” “I’ve got a workout planned tomorrow morning,” “I’m embracing a healthier lifestyle,” or “I’m taking medication that doesn’t mix with alcohol.”

There are also lighthearted approaches to consider, such as “No thanks, I get really belligerent when I drink,” “Before I accept, I should warn you I brought a guitar with me,” “No thanks, I left my small children at home with an angry dog,” or “A few more of these and I’ll be ready to describe my unpublished novel to you!”

The goal of saying no or having a cut-off is to feel empowered by what you say, and practicing saying the words in advance can make a huge difference.

Another successful alternative is to bring your own non-alcoholic beverages. This can be the perfect time to try some holiday mocktails. For many of us, having a drink in hand makes us feel more comfortable in social situations. It also makes it less likely that someone else will pressure us to drink.

Finally, it is crucial to know when to leave a party. Most people have experienced holiday parties or family functions that have gotten out of control. Permitting ourselves to leave early is okay, and this can be a huge relief.

The holiday season can be a slippery slope for overindulgence with alcohol. It is almost celebrated to drink heavily during the festive season; this can be problematic at any age. Whether you choose to drink responsibly or stay sober, support one another to be responsible and respect people’s choices.

Marcel Gemme is the founder of Drug Rehab Services and has been helping people struggling with substance use for over 20 years. His work focuses on education, prevention, and rehabilitation.