Upcoming holidays like Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day, that are often associated with alcohol, can pose a challenge to people in recovery, as well as to those who are avoiding alcohol for a variety of reasons (i.e., diabetes, depression, pregnancy, taking medication.)  With alcohol and tobacco use being the two most common substance use and addictive disorders, it is important to recognize that events celebrated with alcohol can potentially affect health and well-being.   For some people in recovery, environmental triggers - such as being around people who they would typically drink with, or being in a place where they used to drink or other people are drinking - can be quite a challenge. Both direct pressure (someone offering you a drink) and indirect pressure (just being around other people who are drinking) can contribute to the tension of celebrating these famous holidays. Thoughts of ‘having just one’ or, ‘a drink will ease my anxiety’ are not uncommon thoughts, and if not managed, impulsive behavior can lead to excessive drinking, and a lapse in sobriety or avoidance of alcohol. Here are some ways to manage events such as Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day often associated with alcohol: Avoid it. In some situations, particularly these upcoming holidays where events are often centered around drinking, your best strategy may be [...]