A Stocked Bar For Holidays Can Be Introduction To Addiction

Most people would not believe that a fully stocked refrigerator and bar could precede an alcohol or drug addiction later in life.

A survey by SAMSHA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) in June 2008 revealed that 650,000 underage drinkers in May 2008 were given alcohol by their parents or guardians.  “In far too many instances parents directly enable their children’s underage drinking,” said Acting Surgeon General Steven K. Galson, M.D., M.P.H., a rear admiral in the U.S. Public Health Service in June 2008. “Proper parental guidance alone may not be the complete solution to this devastating public health problem but it is a critical part,” Dr. Galson stated.

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To learn more about preventing underage drinking in Maine, visit www.maineparents.net
 
If you are a local business and would like FREE educational workshops about preventing underage drinking and substance abuse held for your staff during work/lunch hours (food provided), please contact portlandprevention@yahoo.com or call (207) 874-8965.

Tips for Preventing the Holiday Blues, Staying Sober (Hazelden)

"Most people know the holidays can be a period of emotional highs and lows. Loneliness, anxiety, happiness and sadness are common feelings, sometimes experienced in startling succession. The bad news is the holiday blues can trigger relapse for people recovering from alcoholism and other drug addiction. The good news is the blues can be remedied by planning ahead.

"Why do the blues hit during this otherwise festive season? Doing too much or too little and being separated from loved ones at this special time can lead to sadness during the holiday season. Many recovering people associate the holidays with memories of overindulgence, perhaps of big benders that resulted in relationship problems or great personal losses.

"Whether you're in recovery or not, developing a holiday plan to help prevent the blues, one that will confront unpleasant memories before they threaten your holiday experience. Your plan should include improved self-care, enhanced support from others, and healthy ways to celebrate. Here are a few suggestions to achieve a happy, sober holiday season..."  

CLICK HERE FOR THE LIST

Here are some additional links to learn more about living in recovery during the Holidays:

"Enjoying Holidays in Sobriety" (A Personal Recovery Story)

"Holiday Tips: Avoid Uncomfortable Places"

More Safe Holiday Tips...

Area resources for addiction treatment & recovery support:

Maine Alliance for Addiction Recovery

SAMHSA's Treatment Locator