Xmas 'presents additional addiction relapse risk'

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by Change | 24 Dec 2008

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Christmas time can present additional temptations which could lead to alcohol addiction relapse, an expert claims.

The festivities which characterise the Christmas holidays can present additional difficulties to those who are struggling to overcome alcohol addiction following their completion of substance abuse rehab clinic schemes, a source reveals.

Recovering addicts may find themselves under pressure during office parties or family gatherings, which can increase the risk of addiction relapse, the Press and Journal reports.

Mark Hepburn, the clinical director of rehabilitation centre the Alexander Clinic, recommends people who have previously become dependent on alcohol abuse to avoid putting themselves into these situations.

Advising former addicts to take part in activities which let them steer clear of temptation, he identifies cinema trips or watching dvds with friends as ways to avoid these urges.

He tells the news provider the Christmas and New Year period is often celebrated with ten days of drinking and says the culture encourages behaviour of this sort.

"I would say that if you have got a healthy approach to it, then it is no worse than any other time, but it is a time of year that doesn't help, particularly for people who are struggling with recovery," Mr Hepburn claims.

Earlier this week, the North-West Evening Mail reported that Cumbrian residents have been issued a warning about the raised risk of violent crime in the area due to the alcohol abuse which people engage in to celebrate the festive season.

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