You do not need to resort to alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs to make it through this holiday season, but you do need to be prepared! Check out the tips below to help combat substance use during the holiday season.

1. Limit triggers – Recognize your triggers and then try to limit them (stress, environment, or certain people). It is also important to take care of your basic needs first (food, sleep, and mood) in order to best manage your triggers or other stressors.
2. Set boundaries – If you anticipate boundaries being tested during this holiday season, you should consider rehearsing responses. Rehearse how you will decline alcoholic beverages or substances and practice how you will respond to questions about your choice if they arise. 
3. Be intentional about the invitations you accept – During the holidays, people celebrate in a variety of ways. It is acceptable for you to say “No, thank you” to invitations, customs, or practices that are unhealthy for you. 
4. Create a plan – Start each day with a plan. This could include bringing an accountability person to holiday events, bringing your own safe foods or drinks that you can enjoy, or creating an exit plan should you find yourself in an unhealthy situation.
5. Engage in healthy self-care – Make a list of substance-free things you enjoy doing, like giving yourself a manicure or watching movies - you deserve it!
6. Seek a support system – If you are part of a support group, make the time to engage in more meetings during the holiday season! 
7. Meetings or Sober events – Do some research to find out what sober events or meetings are taking place virtually or locally! 
8. Try something new! – You may be accustomed to spending holidays using alcohol. Try attending a different event or activity to start a new tradition this year!
9. Connect with sober contacts – Holidays can be stressful- don’t be afraid to reach out for support!
10. Practice mindfulness or other meditation – Numerous studies have shown that mindfulness practice can be a protective factor against substance craving and substance misuse. Mindfulness aids in remaining in the present moment and allows you to calm your mind from the thoughts of the stressors associated with the holiday season, as well as substance use.

Project Alliance is a Coalition of community members throughout northern York County who work together to create a more healthy and thriving community. We are currently seeking more individuals to get involved and seeking the voices of teachers, parents, and other community leaders. 

If you would like to join or get more information, contact

Project Alliance Coordinator Ethan Pollard at projectalliance@une.edu. 

Did you know that household dust can be a major source of lead in homes and buildings built before 1978? If you live in a home built before 1978, it’s important to regularly wet-mop floors, windows, and windowsills using the techniques shown here: Educational Videos | Biddeford, ME (biddefordmaine.org).

In this day-long experiential workshop held every October, middle and high school students have the opportunity to come together to experience connection regardless of their backgrounds and differences. Challenge Day aims to help school communities build a culture of mattering and belonging, specifically inspiring them to be the change they wish to see in the world. 

In a 2021 survey of Maine middle and high school students, 20% of middle and 18.5% of high school students said they have seriously considered suicide. At the same time, 45% of middle school and 49% of high school students said they don’t feel they matter in their communities. With alarming statistics such as these, it’s more critical than ever for adults to engage with young people in our community on projects like this!  

Whether you’re a parent or not, you could play a profound role in positively impacting young people in your community. We encourage you to consider volunteering for opportunities like this. For more information on how to become more involved, contact Biddeford High School Teacher Heather Tremblay at htremblay@biddefordschools.me. (Pictured: Reegan Hebert of MaineHealth)

Reegan Hebert, Community Education Specialist at Partners for Healthier Communities at MaineHealth, is working with schools throughout the CHCC service area to promote and implement CATCH My Breath, an evidence-based youth vaping prevention program. To learn more about this free program, contact Reegan at reegan.hebert@mainehealth.org or 207-490-7856.

Friday, December 9 from 10:00 - 11:30 AM

Enjoy a group nature walk in Clifford Park! Hosted by Biddeford Recreation Department, the group will take a new trail each time and explore the park. Hikes will be about two (2) miles, depending on the group's ability. A volunteer Maine Master Naturalist will be leading the group.

For more information on what to bring and to register in advance, scan or click on the QR code.

Coastal Healthy Communities Coalition

207-602-3551

chcc@une.edu 

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