Maintaining Recovery during the Holiday Season

The winter holidays are usually a time of celebration, but for those in recovery, they can also bring added challenges. With the pressure of social gatherings, heightened expectations, and the overall emphasis on happiness, the holiday season can test your commitment to recovery in ways that other times of the year don’t.

In this blog, we’ll explore practical strategies for maintaining recovery during the holidays, whether you’re newly in recovery or have years under your belt. From navigating tricky social situations to finding moments for self-care, The Council is here to help turn this season into one of strength, joy, and resilience in recovery.

Keep expectations realistic

Just like with any other disease, substance abuse does not take a vacation just because the calendar says so. It’s important to keep expectations for yourself realistic in how you will maintain your recovery. Know your holidays may look different, but different isn’t bad.

Set healthy boundaries

Saying “no” can be one of the most empowering acts of self-care. It is more about being honest about what you can and can’t handle. Try to let go of the guilt of what you “should” do and prioritize what protects your recovery. One missed holiday event is worth being present for the next 10, 20, 30…

Surround yourself with the right people

Spend time with people who already know your struggle and can be there for you if the environment becomes a challenge to your sobriety or mental health.

Have an exit plan

If things don’t feel right, you might need to excuse yourself quickly. So before you go, think about how you will leave. Have your own transportation, ride-share apps installed, or a supportive friend ready to pick you up. Maintain your boundaries and remember that you are in control.

Schedule something to look forward to

Having something positive on your calendar can boost your spirits so plan an activity that excites you, whether it’s volunteering or attending a sober event. Mark your calendar for the Sober Recreation Committee bowling event on December 7 or come volunteer at The Council.

Reach out for support

If you’re wondering whether to reach out for support or not, go ahead and reach out now. The Council is ready to guide you through this season. We have over 15 different recovery group meetings on our campus and recovery support services available. Call us at 713.942.4100 or visit our website anytime for assistance.

Welcome Chief Impact Officer, Tracey Burnett-Greenup

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We are excited to announce the newest addition to The Council’s Executive Leadership team, Tracey Burnett-Greenup, MLS(ASCP), LPC, who has taken on the role of Chief Impact Officer. After evaluating a competitive pool of candidates, Tracey was selected for the position and officially started on October 21. She brings extensive nonprofit experience in developing and implementing strategies that drive positive change and foster organizational growth.

The Chief Impact Officer replaces the former Chief Program Officer position, allowing for a stronger focus on internal opportunities and growth. The CIO will work to ensure The Council’s programs and services continue operating to the highest standard of excellence.

Tracey joins us from Family Houston, where she most recently served as Chief Operating Officer. She holds an M.S. in Clinical Practice Management from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and an M.A in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of the Cumberlands. Additionally, she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Capella University.

A certified Medical Laboratory Scientist through the American Society for Clinical Pathology and a Texas board-approved Licensed Professional Counselor, Tracey’s background includes nonprofit and healthcare administration. She has experience working in clinical settings with children, adolescents, and adults in inpatient and outpatient environments.

“I am passionate about leveraging my counseling skills and leadership experience to support The Council,” Tracey shares, and she looks forward to making a meaningful impact in the community. Please join us in welcoming her to The Council team! Tracey can be reached at tburnett-greenup@councilonrecovery.org.

The Council on Recovery Welcomes Community Service Dog

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Meet The Council on Recovery’s newest team member, Emmy! Emmy, a three-year-old black Lab mix, came home to The Council’s therapist Sarah Myint, LMSW in August after completing more than two years of training to become a community service dog.

Emmy was born, raised, and educated at Canine Assistants, a non-profit organization based in Milton, Georgia dedicated to educating people and dogs so they may enhance the lives of one another. They specialize in placing service dogs with people who have difficulty with mobility, epilepsy/seizure disorders, or Type 1 Diabetes as well as dogs in community settings such as schools, physician centers, and rehabilitation facilities.

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Studies have shown dogs can provide comfort, companionship, and a distraction from unpleasant thoughts. Even just petting a dog promotes the release of hormones that can elevate mood, such as serotonin, prolactin, and oxytocin. Therapy dogs have also been shown to reduce depression, anxiety, loneliness, and distress levels.

After learning about Canine Assistants from a friend, Sarah started the application process in January to receive a community service dog. While Canine Assistants has worked with many schools and hospitals, Sarah was the first applicant from a recovery center. Seeing the benefits of a new partnership, Canine Assistants graciously waived its usual fees, enabling Sarah to receive Emmy at no expense while also providing access for The Council’s clients!

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Sarah went to Georgia in July to meet Emmy and begin bonding. What makes Canine Assistants unique is its bond-based approach. Rather than focus on teaching the dogs to perform tasks on command, they educate people and dogs to develop mutually beneficial relationships. Sarah and Emmy bring this philosophy into their work here at The Council.

Sarah is a Therapist at the Center for Recovering Families within The Council, working with adults and adolescents who face challenges with addiction and negative mental health. Emmy has already been present in individual therapy and group sessions in intensive outpatient therapy; she will soon join school-based group sessions and The Council’s program for those seeking treatment through Felony Mental Health Court.  

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Even after just a few sessions, Emmy is recognizing participants. One adolescent stated she was “already thankful” to have Emmy in her therapy sessions, expressing how Emmy’s presence made her feel more comfortable being vulnerable.    

Sarah is excited to continue exploring opportunities with Emmy at The Council to help make therapy more accessible and approachable.

When not working, Emmy loves playing with her turtle plushy, splashing in puddles, and eating peanut butter. Be sure to say hi to Emmy and Sarah when you see them on campus!

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The Council on Recovery Earns Three-Year CARF Accreditation

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We are excited to share that after intense review, The Council has received a three-year accreditation from The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

Since our founding in 1946, The Council on Recovery has been at the forefront of helping individuals and families whose lives have been impacted by alcoholism, drug addiction, and co-occurring mental health disorders. 

We are proud to demonstrate our continued commitment to excellence by receiving a three-year accreditation from The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities.

The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is an independent, nonprofit accreditor of health and human services. CARF officially recognizes health and human service providers as having met rigorous standards for quality of service.

Achieving accreditation clearly shows The Council’s dedication to delivering safe, effective, and high-quality services and commitment to ongoing improvement.  

A three-year accreditation is the highest level of accreditation that can be awarded to an organization, following a rigorous peer review process and on-site visits. CARF accreditation gives confidence to our community that The Council is the place to start. 

For more information about CARF International, the standards, or the accreditation process, visit www.carf.org.

The Top Benefits of Seeking Substance Abuse Treatment

Substance abuse is a really tough battle, and it doesn’t just affect the person who’s struggling—it also impacts their friends, family, and the people around them. Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, or even prescription medications, addiction can seriously harm someone’s body, mind, and emotions, making it hard to live a normal life. However, the good news is that recovery is possible through substance abuse treatment. With the right help, people can turn their lives around and live healthier, happier lives. Our team at The Council on Recovery is here to explore the top benefits of seeking substance abuse treatment, explaining the importance of getting professional help and how it can lead to long-term recovery.

Improved Physical Health

One of the first things that substance abuse treatment focuses on is helping your body recover from the damage caused by addiction. Years of substance abuse can take a serious toll on your body, impacting everything from your heart and lungs to your digestive system. This often starts with a process called detoxification, or detox. Detox is when the body gets rid of harmful substances like drugs or alcohol, and this can be difficult because some people experience withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild discomfort to more severe reactions, depending on the substance and length of use. However, going through detox in a treatment center makes the process safer and more comfortable since medical professionals are there to help manage these symptoms.

Once detox is completed, substance abuse treatment helps improve physical health in many ways. People learn how to take care of their bodies through healthy eating, exercise, and other good habits. Restoring physical health is a gradual process, but with consistent care, many people see significant improvements in their overall well-being. Treatment allows the body to heal, giving people more energy and better overall well-being. Over time, as the body begins to recover, many people notice improvements in sleep, energy levels, and their ability to focus.

Mental and Emotional Support

Addiction isn’t just about physical health; it also has a huge impact on mental and emotional well-being. People struggling with substance abuse often experience a range of emotions, including guilt, shame, and hopelessness, which can make recovery even more difficult. Many people who struggle with substance abuse also face mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, or trauma. These underlying mental health issues can make it harder to quit, which is why addressing them during treatment is so important. That’s why substance abuse treatment often includes counseling and therapy. These services are designed to help people work through their feelings and find healthier ways to manage stress and emotions.

Therapists and counselors can teach new skills to cope with challenges, which helps individuals avoid turning to drugs or alcohol when life gets hard. During treatment, people get the chance to work on both their addiction and any mental health issues, like anxiety or depression, that may have played a role in it. This helps them tackle everything that’s been affecting their well-being. This dual approach is essential for long-term recovery, as it helps by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Therapy sessions, whether individual or in groups, are a key part of helping people build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.

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Building Healthy Habits

Addiction often causes people to develop bad habits, like using substances to cope with stress or difficult situations. Over time, these unhealthy habits can become deeply ingrained, making it hard to stop without help. Substance abuse treatment helps individuals break free from these harmful patterns and build new, healthier habits. By learning how to manage triggers and cravings, people can replace their old behaviors with positive, constructive activities. Treatment programs teach important life skills such as time management, problem-solving, and how to deal with cravings.

One of the most valuable parts of substance abuse treatment is learning how to create routines that support long-term sobriety. Building structure and consistency into daily life helps people stay focused on their recovery goals. Creating good habits and following a daily routine can really help you stay sober after treatment. Having a plan and doing positive things every day can make a huge difference in staying on track with your recovery. These routines become the foundation for a new lifestyle, filled with meaningful activities that promote well-being and personal growth. People who go through treatment often learn how to replace their old habits with activities that bring joy and fulfillment, like exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.

Strengthening Relationships

Addiction doesn’t just harm the person using substances—it also hurts the people around them. The relationships that you have with family, friends, and even coworkers can become strained. Many people lose the trust and support of those they care about most. One of the great benefits of substance abuse treatment is the chance to rebuild these relationships and restore trust.

Family therapy is a key part of many treatment programs. This allows families to come together, work through their issues, and support each other during recovery. Learning how to communicate better, resolve conflicts, and support loved ones in healthy ways are all essential for repairing relationships. When families are involved in treatment, they can play an important role in helping the person in recovery stay on track and feel loved and supported.

Long-term Recovery and Relapse Prevention

The journey to recovery doesn’t stop once treatment ends. Maintaining sobriety is a long-term process, and substance abuse treatment helps people build the tools and skills they need to avoid relapse. Aftercare programs, such as support groups and counseling, are crucial for staying sober over time. These programs offer a safety net and ongoing encouragement for people as they adjust to life outside of treatment.

Substance abuse treatment also teaches people how to recognize triggers—situations, people, or emotions that might tempt them to use substances again. With these insights, they can develop strategies to handle cravings and avoid falling back into old habits. Whether it’s through peer support groups, therapy, or other aftercare resources, people in recovery are given the support they need to stay strong.

Encouragement to Seek Help

Recovery may seem like a big and scary step, but seeking help through substance abuse treatment is the first step toward a brighter future. It’s important to know that no one has to go through this alone. With the right help, anyone can beat addiction and start living a healthier, happier life. It doesn’t matter if you’re seeking help for yourself or someone you care about—getting treatment now can truly change everything for the better.If you’re ready to take the next step, learn more about our substance abuse treatment program at The Council on Recovery by calling our team at (713) 942-4100 to schedule an appointment. We’re here to help you or your loved one on the path to recovery!

Houstonian Brené Brown Helps The Council on Recovery to Raise More Than $932,000

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Houstonian and New York Times bestseller Brené Brown inspired a crowd of more than 1,500 Houstonians at The Council on Recovery’s 40th Annual Spring Luncheon on Friday, April 19, 2024. Co-chaired by Diane Erbstoesser, Pasha & George Joseph, and Neeraj Parasher, the event raised more than $932,000 to help individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions.

Board of Trustees member Jerri Duddlesten Moore welcomed guests and highlighted the Speaker Series’ legacy of education and awareness. Executive Pastor Matt Russell from Chapelwood United Methodist Church provided the invocation. 

The Council’s President and CEO, Mary H. Beck, LMSW, CAI, emphasized that recovery is at the heart of the organization’s mission. She highlighted the organization’s expansion of services and capacity over the past two years, which aimed to reduce stigma and enhance campus events. “Today is a living, breathing testament to this mission,” emphasizing the luncheon’s impact in fighting addiction stigma and fostering recovery paths. Beck also stressed the ongoing commitment to this mission beyond the event, stating, “Our mission lives on beyond these walls,” as she outlined initiatives to expand treatment, develop future leaders, and enhance community partnerships. Beck affirmed their continuous effort to transform lives, underscoring, “We continue to approach our work with intent and passion.”

Luncheon Co-Chairs Pasha & George Joseph, and Neeraj Parasher followed with moving testimonials on how addiction has impacted their own lives.

George Joseph highlighted the transformative impact of addiction recovery, sharing his own experiences and the pivotal role of community support. He emphasized the significance of recovery efforts, stating, “One person’s recovery can affect hundreds and prevent generations of dysfunction.” 

Joseph praised Houston’s extensive recovery resources, noting its position as home to the largest Council in Recovery. He celebrated the community’s role in reducing stigma and educating others about addiction, underscoring the importance of events like the luncheon in spreading awareness and support.

Neeraj Parasher shared his transformative journey from addiction to recovery, emphasizing the profound role of hope in his life. He recounted the despair of waking up alone on Christmas Day 2018, a pivotal moment that led him to seek help. “I’m just thankful to be alive and free,” Neeraj expressed, grateful for the support from his sponsor and the Alcoholics Anonymous community that heard his “screams for help.” 

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He credits his wife, Morgan, with providing constant support and a reason to maintain his sobriety. Neeraj also highlighted his rewarding involvement with The Council’s Cradles program, where he plays Santa at their Annual Holiday Party, describing it as the most wonderful part of his year. Through his experiences, Neeraj has redefined what it means to live a consequential life, aiming to be a reliable presence for others struggling with addiction.

Board of Trustees Chair Amanda Polich reflected on the Council’s commitment to making treatment accessible, noting, “We made a promise never to turn away a family in need of treatment.” To fulfill this promise, the luncheons have raised over $22.2 million. Despite the growth in treatment options and innovations, the cost remains a significant barrier. 

To address this, Polich announced the launch of The Council’s Treatment Fund, seeded by a $150,000 donation from an anonymous donor. She urged attendees to contribute, using the donation methods provided at their tables, ensuring that all funds raised would directly support families in need of treatment.

Keynote Speaker Brené Brown then took the stage in an entertaining, thoughtful, and inspiring speech. Brené Brown shared poignant reflections on the importance of sobriety in her life, stating, “Every meaningful and important thing in my life, I owe to my sobriety.” She emphasized the transformative role of connection in overcoming addiction, remarking, “In the absence of connection, there is always suffering.” 

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Brown highlighted the contrast between addiction’s isolation and the community’s power, expressing gratitude for organizations like The Council that champion support for those unable to afford treatment. She noted, “I’m so grateful for The Council and their commitment to doing work on the hardest edges of love.” 

Brown’s message underscored the necessity of community and mutual support in recovery, concluding with a powerful reminder: “We don’t have to do it alone. We were never meant to.”