The holidays can be a joyful time, but they can also be stressful – especially for those managing substance use or mental health challenges. Many people wonder: “Is it better to start treatment before the holidays or wait until after?” Here’s what to consider:

1. Starting Treatment Before the Holidays

• Pros:
  • Provides support during a potentially high-stress period.
  • Helps develop coping strategies to navigate holiday triggers.
  • Creates a sense of accountability and structure during social events.
• Cons:
  • Holidays may bring extra challenges and temptations, which can feel overwhelming at first.
  • Scheduling around family gatherings or work obligations can be tricky.

2. Starting Treatment After the Holidays

• Pros:
  • Allows you to enjoy holiday events without immediate treatment commitments.
  • You can start fresh in a less stressful, more predictable routine.
• Cons:
  • Risk of holiday-related relapse or heightened stress.
  • Delaying care may prolong discomfort or worsening symptoms.

3. Key Considerations:

• Your support system: Do you have people who can help you navigate holiday stress?
• Your triggers: Are the holidays likely to increase cravings or emotional distress?
• Your readiness: Treatment is most effective when you’re ready to commit to your recovery.

Bottom Line:
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Starting treatment before the holidays can give you tools to manage stress, while waiting until after may feel more manageable for some. The most important thing is to reach out for help – whether now or after the holidays.

 At ACTS, our programs are designed to meet people where they are. We provide compassionate, flexible support for recovery, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), counseling, and outpatient services. You don’t have to wait to take the first step.

Contact ACTS today at 813.246.4899 to discuss your options and find a plan that works for you.