The holidays are coming. They're a time to get together with family and friends. Unfortunately, if you're a recovering alcoholic, they can also be a time of incredible temptation and stress, especially if you're worried about a relapse. You can't hide away from everyone and hope that the holidays go away. However, you can take some steps to prepare yourself for the festivities. Learn more here about three measures you can take to keep yourself safe from a relapse during the holidays.

Bring Your Own Drinks

If you know that there are going to be alcoholic beverages served at the party, bring your own drinks. This will ensure that you have something to drink throughout the night. If the host of the party is going to be serving wine with the meal, bring your own sparkling beverage to enjoy during the meal. If you're going to be heading out to bring in the new year, bring a bottle of sparkling water or apple juice so that you can toast with your friends.

Don't Forget to Eat

If you're going to be heading out to holiday parties, don't forget to eat. Failing to eat can cause your blood sugar to dip. Unfortunately, that dip in blood sugar can lead to a relapse. Studies show that nutrition plays a vital role in avoiding alcoholic relapses. Low blood sugar can make you more irritable, aggressive and angry. It can also increase your cravings for alcohol. Avoid a relapse by having a light snack once every couple of hours throughout the night. If food is not going to be available at the get-together, bring your own snacks.

Know When to Walk Away

Stress can increase your need for alcohol. Before you head out for the evening, take the time to identify any stressors you might encounter. For instance, if you have a family member that knows how to push your buttons, identify those buttons. By identifying the buttons, you'll be able to know when to walk away. When you feel yourself reaching the limit, thank the host and walk away. There's no harm in leaving a situation that you know is not good for you.

The holidays are here. Don't take chances with a relapse. The information provided here will help you avoid situations that will cause you to fall off the wagon. To help you out of a stressful situation, be sure to keep your substance abuse counselor's phone number on you at all times. Let them know that you're heading to a party so they're ready to come get you should the need arise.