Addicts urged to get support during 'stresses' of festive season

The excesses and stresses of the festive period could lead people back into old habits, a charity says

People in recovery from addiction are being urged over Christmas to avoid scenarios that could lead to a relapse and seek support.

Thea Ozanturk of addiction charity, Motiv8, said "picture-perfect" scenes on the television made it look like everyone was "having fun".

"If you're not, you might feel more compelled to use a substance to make you feel better," she said.

The charity offers free support to people struggling with addictions.

It saw an additional 678 new referrals to its services in the past year, by those dealing with alcohol, drugs or gambling addictions.

Ms Ozanturk said the season could be stressful for people, adding: "Nearly everyone that comes through the doors is asking about tips for coping with Christmas, and we help with a range of things that they can do to avoid temptation, to be distracted so that they don't fall down that path again."

She said addiction was "a little bit like a magnet" that would "pull you back in if you allow yourself to stay close to its forcefield".

Motiv8 offers support those struggling with addictions, including gambling

The charity suggested people "pull themselves away from those situations entirely", and engage in activities like going to the gym, going for a walk or practising mindfulness.

Ms Ozanturk said the Christmas period could also be a "distressing time" for family members because of the uncertainty of an addict's behaviour.

She said: "Are they going to be drunk, incapacitated, missing? Will they come home? Will there be any conflict and disharmony in the family? Will there be enough money for Christmas?

"Because one of the things about substance misuse, whatever type, or gambling, is it involves money."

Anyone who finds themselves in that situation has also been encouraged to join a new group being started by the charity in January to support family members.

"It's about them having an opportunity to meet with others in the same situation and focus on their own wellbeing and their own recovery pathway, and not be so overly concerned," Ms Ozanturk said.

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