Christmas and New Year’s will be difficult this year as the pandemic restrictions will
keep many of us at home, away from loved ones and friends. Office parties, family get-
together, and dinners are now limited to Zoom. ***
It can be challenging and depressing. However, a gift in the mail from friends,
colleagues, and family will cheer anyone up. It’s almost as good as being there.
If you have a loved one who is recovering from drug addiction, there are a number of
appropriate, compassionate, and inexpensive gifts you can give them this holiday:
- A journal: Journaling is a recommended way for people in recovery to be mindful
and to process their feelings during this time. They can also reflect later on their
feelings and struggles. Additionally, it also gives them a first-hand perspective on
how far they have come. It can be raw, honest, and encouraging. A journal is one
of the most practical, and appreciated, gifts you can give.
- Photo album: Most albums are kept in smartphones or computer memories.
However, this gift, a hard copy photo album can have several uses. Addiction
can cause family rifts. A photo album filled with photos of family and friends
reminds them of their journey and of those people who support them. You should
leave a few pages blank so they can fill it with meaningful photos.
- Fitness Center Membership: Individuals in recovery need physical activity. A
fitness center membership can do wonders for their mind and body. It gets their
mind off of their situation and helps them sleep better, too. They may also meet
people who can encourage them along their journey. (Of course, fitness center
participation varies due to COVID restrictions.)
- Personalized jewelry: One constant reminder of their recovery achievements
could be a personalized ring, necklace, or bracelet. It could be embossed with
the first day of sobriety and have their initials on it. (Amazon carries a large
number of jewelry items that celebrate serenity and sobriety.)
- Your time: Your time is priceless. So, spending it with someone in recovery is as
special and compassionate as it gets. Take time out from your busy holiday and
schedule coffee, a walk, a movie, or a Zoom call with them. Don’t rush it or look
at your watch. Just sit with them and listen, laugh, cry, and enjoy their company.
You will never regret it and it will bring happiness to their holiday.
Holiday arrangements can be complicated by COVID restrictions, but they aren’t
impossible. Make it memorable by giving a special gift to a loved one in recovery.
If you or someone you know needs substance abuse treatment, consult one of our
experienced counselors. The Concerted Care Group of Central Baltimore, MD, and
Brooklyn, MD, has a compassionate behavioral health team that includes therapists, a
Psychiatric nurse practitioner, psychiatric and medical providers a nurse practitioner,
and a psychiatrist. Services include individual, group, and family therapy for adults and
adolescents. Group therapy and psychiatric services are available for adults.
Contact us at (833) CCG-LIVE to make an appointment.
For more on how Zoom is being utilized for the holiday, go to this New York Post link.