Most of us have treasured holiday memories from when our children were younger: the little ones eager to help—frosting cookies, mashing potatoes, wrapping gifts.

 

Until alcohol and other substance misuse entered our homes. Holiday traditions and the joy of getting together with friends and family became tinged with anxiety. And, as misuse continued or recovery began, few moments were safe from worry and fear.

 

I know. I’ve been there. Perhaps you recognize some of these triggers:

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• Cocktails served and dinner toasted with wine at family gatherings

• Watching your child disappear down the driveway in your car to visit old high school buddies

• Waiting for the call that there’d been an arrest or an accident

• Spending too much time alone in his room

• An empty bottle found stuffed in her laundry basket