Here you see a photo of the  list generated by the group.

 
 
Many reported the holidays were a source of stress for them for reasons unique to recovery. Some of those challenges were lack of support for recovery, expectations to use or drink with friends or family, questions about how to celebrate without using, and having to choose between attending support group meetings or family gatherings. 
 
Most of the stressors the participants named were challenging holiday situations faced by most individuals and families—in recovery or not: being around family members you might not enjoy, unrealistic expectations around the holidays, overspending, overeating, lack of sleep, grief, loneliness, and isolation.
 
The group members discussed coping skills, strategies for moving forward in their recoveries and focused on anticipating how to stay “safe” if they found themselves wanting to use or drink.  Group participants spent time listing self-care routines that could be essential but are often neglected during the holidays.  This can add to our levels of stress.  These routines included adequate sleep, exercise, nutritious food, staying hydrated, attending support meetings, doing volunteer work and choosing positive family/friends with whom you want to spend time.
 
You don’t have to be in recovery for a substance use situation for the holidays to be stressful—we all can use positive strategies for coping.
 
What are YOUR strategies for staying on track in your life during the holidays?
 
Please share with the Phoenix community—we’d like to compile a list. 

You must complete a Consent to Release Confidential Information form and return it to us with your original signature.    

1. Open and print the Consent to Release Confidential Information Form.
2. Complete and sign the release form. Please note: The signature on the release must match the original signature in your medical record.
3. Mail or fax the form with your original signature to 573.442.3830.

For more information contact Merritt Mosely at 573.875.8880 Monday through Friday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM or by email.

• One week’s worth of clothing and a set of bath towels.
• No hats or bandanas inside the house.
• Open toe sandals must be worn with socks.
• Shower shoes are recommended, but not required.  Washer, dryer and laundry detergent is provided

 Personal hygiene items

• Nothing that contains alcohol (such as mouth wash).
• Over-the-counter medication will be locked up.

 Reading and writing material, if desired

• Bring stamps and envelopes if you’ll need them.
• No pornography is allowed.

Miscellaneous

• Extra bedding, if desired.
• An ample supply of prescription medication, if applicable.
• Musical Instrument (i.e. guitar).

Tobacco use and possession is not allowed while you are receiving residential treatment at Phoenix Programs. 

If you think that being without cigarettes or other tobacco during your stay will be an issue for you, please bring a supply of Nicotine Replacement Therapy with you, for example:

• Nicotine Patches
• Nicotine Gum
• Nicotine Lozenges 

Do Not Bring…

• Tobacco products
• Food or drinks
• Any personal electronic devices such as a CD player, iPod, laptop, cell phone, video games, etc.
• Valuables – there are no lockers in rooms.