Let’s face it: the holidays come with stress. There’s the shopping, the cooking, the never-ending loop of “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” Add recovery into the mix, and it’s easy to see how the season’s usual pressures can feel magnified. Alcohol and other substances are often front and center at gatherings, and family dynamics can bring up old wounds. For someone in recovery, these triggers can make the holidays feel more like a test than a celebration.

When a loved one is battling addiction, it can feel like you’re walking a tightrope—trying to support them without unintentionally making things worse. Offering love, empathy, and care is essential, but there’s a fine line between supporting someone through their struggles and enabling behaviors that fuel their addiction. Finding this balance is critical, not only for your loved one’s recovery but also for your well-being.

There are significant benefits to be gained from a morning routine.