Can I Drink in Front of a Loved One After They’re Out of Rehab?

The holiday season can be a time of celebration, and togetherness with loved ones. And it can often be a challenging time for those actively consuming substances or are in some kind of recovery process — including at in-patient rehab.

When a family member has recently completed rehab for addiction and is rejoining festivities just in time for Christmas, there might be uncertainty and questions about how to best support them. A common concern that arises is whether family members should drink in front of their recovering loved one during these celebrations. I can assure you the person exiting rehab around Christmas has a lot on their mind. Being in the safe bubble of rehab makes things less intense but planning an exit to go home and participate in Christmas events is a tricky endeavour that requires some planning. Family and friends can be key supporters to make a Christmas for a loved one just out of rehab comfortable and safe. Open communication is key.

I would encourage families and friends to choose to have an alcohol-free dinner or celebration with solidarity in mind and to support their loved one or friend who either just got out of treatment or is a person in recovery trying to change their relationship to alcohol. 

Consider the Investment of In-Patient Rehab

Families spend tens of thousands of dollars to send their loved one to treatment. Families will have certain expectations of their loved one exiting rehab, going home and adjusting to this new life. If people are drinking in front of their loved one right after sending them to rehab it sends a tricky message.

Communicate and Listen

Open communication is key in navigating this delicate situation. Engage in honest and empathetic conversations with your loved one about their feelings and comfort level regarding alcohol consumption during Christmas celebrations. Listen attentively to their concerns and preferences without judgment, respecting their needs and boundaries.

Prioritize Support and Understanding

The primary focus should be on creating a supportive and understanding environment for your loved one. It's essential to demonstrate your unwavering support for their recovery journey, showing understanding and empathy towards their challenges and triggers.

Considerations for Alcohol Consumption

When it comes to the question of drinking in front of your recently rehabbed loved one during Christmas, several considerations can guide your actions:

1. Respect Their Journey: Acknowledge the immense effort and commitment your loved one has put into their recovery. Consider refraining from alcohol consumption or minimizing its presence out of respect for their journey.

2. Discuss Preferences: Engage in a candid conversation with your loved one about their comfort level regarding alcohol being present during the festivities. Some individuals might feel comfortable being around alcohol, while others may prefer a setting with minimal to no alcohol. Your loved will likely say, "it's fine, you have to live your life and don't change on account of me" but is that really true? 

3. Alternative Beverage Options: Offer a diverse selection of non-alcoholic beverages. Providing enticing non-alcoholic options can create an inclusive environment, ensuring everyone can partake in festive drinks without emphasizing alcohol.

4. Emphasize Other Celebratory Aspects: Shift the focus of the celebrations to other joyful activities such as sharing meals, engaging in games, or enjoying meaningful conversations. Highlighting these aspects can reduce the emphasis on alcohol consumption.

5. Supportive Family Dynamics: Encourage family members to display solidarity and support by being mindful of their alcohol consumption. Encourage a supportive environment that prioritizes the well-being of the individual in recovery.

A Balancing Act: Nurturing Festive Cheer While Respecting Recovery

Balancing the festive spirit with the needs of your loved one in recovery requires empathy, understanding, and compromise. It's essential to strike a balance that supports their sobriety while still cherishing the joy of the holiday season.

Final Thoughts

As your loved one returns home from rehab just in time for Christmas, your support and understanding play a crucial role in their continued journey towards recovery. Prioritizing their comfort and well-being during the celebrations by openly communicating, respecting their boundaries, and fostering a supportive environment can significantly contribute to their ongoing success in maintaining sobriety.

This festive season, let the spirit of compassion, empathy, and togetherness guide your interactions with your loved one post-rehab, ensuring a supportive and nurturing environment for their continued recovery.

Get Help Creating Your Personal Roadmap

It can be really scary to arrive at the realization that you have a drinking problem, no matter how big or small.

But it’s a lot less scary when you have an experienced guide to help you sort things out.

I’m an accredited Addiction Recovery Coach offering worldwide virtual support, and in-person support across Canada. If you’re interested in exploring 1:1 recovery coaching to help you cut back your drinking or stop drinking entirely, I’m happy to answer your questions.

I offer a no-charge consult call to anyone who has questions about their own substance use, or the substance use of a family member. These calls are completely confidential with no pressure to make a decision before you feel entirely ready.

I’d also like to invite you to read more about my personal story here.

Michael Walsh
Phone or Text: 250.896.8494
Email: Coach@MichaelWalsh.com
Chat: Start a WhatsApp chat

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