While the festive season is often viewed as a cheerful, family-focused time of year, it can also bring deep challenges for those facing substance misuse.
Despite this, the organisation has observed that fewer people reach out for support or enter rehabilitation during December.
Conn explains that the desire to be with family at Christmas is one of the main reasons people delay seeking formal treatment.
Many individuals feel unable to face being away from loved ones during such an emotional and traditional time of year, even when they know that their addiction is causing serious harm in their lives.
The Emotional Pull of Family At Christmas
During the Christmas period, most people want to be surrounded by family, friends, and familiar comforts. Celebrations, traditions, shared meals, and time together are central to the season. For someone considering rehab or intensive support, the thought of missing these moments can feel overwhelming.
For many, the idea of spending Christmas away from home, separated from loved ones, and in an unfamiliar environment becomes a powerful emotional barrier. This often leads to individuals postponing treatment until after the holidays, even though they may be fully aware that they need support.
Families Use Christmas As a Time For Reflection
While the number of people entering treatment may drop in December, Christmas often serves as an important time for self-reflection. Seeing families coming together, sharing love, and celebrating can make individuals painfully aware of what they may be missing or have lost due to addiction.
This contrast can be a powerful wake-up call. People may begin to think more deeply about their choices, their relationships, and their future. Feelings of sadness, regret, or longing for change can intensify during this period, pushing individuals closer to making a decision to seek help.
Increase Motivation in The New Year
As the festive season ends, many people feel more prepared to take action. January is often seen as a fresh start, and this mindset can encourage those who have been struggling to finally reach out for support.
The reflection that takes place over Christmas frequently leads to an increase in enquiries and treatment admissions in the new year. Individuals who have spent time thinking about their situation may feel stronger, more motivated, and ready to begin the recovery process.
Families Give More Support During The Festive Period
Even though fewer people may enter treatment in December, support remains available throughout the holidays. For some, Christmas can worsen feelings of loneliness, anxiety, or hopelessness, and in severe cases, it can lead to crisis situations.
Access to guidance, reassurance, and professional support can be vital during this time. Knowing that help is still there provides comfort and can prevent individuals from feeling completely alone.
Christmas Shouldn’t Stop People Taking a Step Towards Recovery
While the desire to spend Christmas with family is understandable and deeply human, it is important that this does not stop people from taking steps towards recovery. Reaching out for information, advice, or a simple conversation can be the beginning of a positive change.
Even if someone chooses to delay treatment until the new year, putting a plan in place can bring hope and a sense of control for the future. Recovery does not have a fixed timeline, and every journey starts with a single step.
Help is available for individuals and families affected by addiction, no matter the time of year.
