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Five Reasons to Get Help for Addiction Before the Holiday Season Is Over

Experts at Hazelden Springbrook Advise Not Waiting for the New Year to Seek Treatment

Experts at Hazelden Springbrook, a nationally recognized addiction treatment resource center, advise those suffering from an addiction to seek help before the onslaught of holiday season stresses.

"The holidays are a stressful time, and even more so for someone dealing with drug or alcohol addiction," says Hazelden clinical director Heidi Wallace. "Postponing help is very dangerous to the individual and their loved ones, and could lead to even more hurdles at the start of the new year."

Wallace says those suffering from an addiction typically use the holidays as a reason for not getting treatment. "People who abuse drugs and alcohol generally do so more during special occasions, such as holidays, anniversaries, birthdays, than any other time of year," says Wallace. "The holidays can bring up painful memories, which increase the chances of relapse or escalations in drug or alcohol use. By getting through this time with the help of treatment, the positive memories of being sober through the holidays can help maintain sobriety."

Wallace provides the five reasons to access treatment prior to the holidays:

1.  The holidays are stressful and even more so for those with an addicted
    family member. Stress can contribute to increasing use of alcohol and
    drugs.
2.  The first memory of a positive holiday can help people stay sober. For
    many individuals who are changing their lives by seeking treatment or
    services, the positive memories help them stay sober this time of year.
3.  Getting help is a gift to family members who are struggling with their
    loved one's addiction. This is especially true when entering
    residential treatment before the holidays.
4.  Depression is common for those suffering with addiction, and the
    holidays are a time of year when symptoms of depression can increase.
5.  This is an opportunity to start a new year to begin a new life in
    recovery. This is an opportunity to end 2009 better than it started.

To seek help for yourself or a loved one, contact 1-866-866-4662.

About Hazelden Springbrook

Hazelden Springbrook, located in Newberg, Oregon provides a comprehensive range of clinical services to treat addiction. Hazelden Springbrook treats adults, ages 18 and over. Hazelden Springbrook is recognized as a leader in the treatment of physicians, nurses, pharmacists and other licensed health care professionals. Springbrook's reputation for providing a high quality, effective recovery experience has earned high marks from state diversion, well-being and monitoring programs. Founded in 1990, Hazelden Springbrook is located in the quiet countryside on a 23-acre campus that promotes an atmosphere of respect, serenity, and support, www.hazelden.org/springbrook.