A safe and healthy holiday season for you and your family

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The holiday season is a time to reconnect with loved ones and reflect on the year gone by. While it’s often called “the most wonderful time of the year,” it can also bring stress, temptation and challenges for those facing addiction, emotional distress or family pressures. Even if 2024 hasn’t been your best year, you can approach Christmastime with strength, stay safe and look forward to a happy and healthy 2025.

At Marrin Weejali, we develop and run programs and services to reduce the physical and emotional distress caused by alcohol and other drugs in a culturally safe environment. We are run by our people, for our people. While Christmas is traditionally a time of happiness and togetherness, it can also be tough. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re struggling.

Amidst the busyness and excitement of holiday festivities, it’s easy for routines that provide stability and balance to fall by the wayside. If you’re dealing with drug or alcohol addiction or facing emotional challenges, prioritising regular sleep, balanced meals and self-care practices is essential to manage stress. Stay mindful of your needs and avoid letting the holiday hustle distract you from what keeps you grounded.

Setting firm boundaries is also important. It’s okay to politely decline events or situations that might jeopardise your recovery or wellbeing. You can also limit the time you spend in environments that feel overwhelming.

Staying physically active is a powerful way to support both your mental and physical health. Regular movement can lift your mood, ease stress and improve your overall strength. Activities like walking, dancing or playing a sport offer a constructive outlet for energy and emotions. Incorporating cultural practices or spending time outdoors can also bring a sense of connection and calm, helping you feel grounded and capable of making positive choices.

Many activities over the coming weeks will involve alcohol or other temptations that can be challenging when you’re in recovery. Stay safe by planning ahead and attending events with a trusted support person who understands your situation and goals.

Another helpful approach is to have a response ready in case you’re offered alcohol or other substances. Practice polite ways to decline that feel comfortable for you and help you avoid unnecessary pressure or guilt. Those who care about you will understand and respect your boundaries.

Remember, help is always available, and you don’t have to face challenges on your own. Whether you need someone to talk to, guidance on navigating recovery, or support in a moment of crisis, there are people and resources ready to assist you. Reaching out is a sign of strength, and taking that step can launch you forward on your path to healing and a healthier future.

The holiday season can offer valuable opportunities for those navigating challenges. It’s a time to nurture relationships with family and find meaningful ways to spend time together. Embracing traditions or starting new ones—like sharing a meal, telling stories or participating in cultural practices—can create moments of comfort and support.

Spending more quality time together during the holidays can provide openings for meaningful conversations and dialogue. This can be a chance to share honestly, express feelings and work towards rebuilding trust with loved ones. If it feels right, consider offering an apology or acknowledging past actions to help mend relationships.

Embracing cultural practices during the holidays can provide comfort and a deeper connection to heritage. Integrating traditions that reflect your values and history creates beautiful moments for yourself and your family.

The holiday season can amplify the weight of personal struggles, as the festive atmosphere often contrasts sharply with inner challenges. Finding small ways to focus on your needs, such as seeking quiet moments or leaning on trusted support, can help you navigate this time with compassion for yourself.

Recognising the signs that you or a loved one needs help is an important step towards healing. Look out for changes in behaviour, withdrawal from others, increased stress or reliance on substances to cope. If you notice these signs, don’t ignore them—reach out for support or encourage your loved one to seek help.

The festive season can feel isolating for some, but support is always available. At Marrin Weejali, our range of culturally safe services includes counselling and group therapy. Our doors are open to everyone in Western Sydney.

As we celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another, let’s be mindful of those around us who may have heavy hearts. We want everyone to enjoy a happy, safe and healthy Christmas season with those they love most.

At Marrin Weejali, we are committed to walking alongside you on the path to recovery and healing. We thank all our partners for their support throughout another successful year and look forward to continuing our work of mending shattered spirits in 2025 and beyond.

If you or someone you know needs support to overcome addiction, our programs offer holistic, culturally safe alternatives for individuals and families. These services are available to both Aboriginal and non-Indigenous people in Western Sydney.

You are welcome at Marrin Weejali.

Contact us for a confidential discussion.