Tis the season for holiday parties, and any good party host is looking for ways to accommodate everyone. If you have a loved one who is a recovering addict attending your party, you’re probably worried about making sure they’re comfortable and safe. You can be supportive of your loved one’s recovery by considering their needs in your party planning.
Be Quietly Accommodating
Making a big production out of supporting an addict at your holiday party will only make them feel isolated and conspicuous. Keep your party planning on the downlow and make your accommodations fit in with the rest of your party. Keep your party drug free and alcohol free too, if you can. Even if alcohol isn’t your loved one’s drug of choice, drinking in any amount can put a serious dent in their recovery progress. Put out non-alcoholic drinks for everyone to enjoy. There’s no need to talk about what an addict is having to drink out loud, just casually offer them something that is on their approved list, and then move on. Let your loved one know that you’re on their team, that you’re happy to have them there, and that you’re keeping an eye on them.
Put the Addict in Charge
Being a good host doesn’t have to turn into babysitting just because you’re trying to accommodate a newly sober addict. Let your loved one know exactly what your party will be like, including whether or not alcohol will be served, and then let them decide whether or not they want to attend. Don’t take it personally if they’re not quite ready to accept party invitations yet. If they do decide to come, ask them specifically what you can do to help their night go more smoothly. Listen to their suggestions in order to show your support. Invite them to bring a friend of their choice along for extra support. Let them know that they can come to you for help, or leave the party at any time if they need to without hurting your feelings.
Act Natural
Once you’ve implemented their ideas for a safe party environment, leave your loved one to make their own decisions and have a nice time. There’s no need to hover. An addict’s sobriety is not your responsibility and they will gain strength from taking the reigns and knowing you trust them. You can get on with mingling with your guests, and allow your loved one to do the same. Making new friends, and re-establishing old social connections is great for a recovering addict, so a safe holiday party can be a good thing. Remember that you’re all here to have fun, so focus on making a happy memory for your loved one, and not have the focus on their addiction.
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