So you're free from your problematic substance whether that's alcohol or another drug, Christmas can bring up a whole sleigh filled with fresh challenges.

You may feel like scrapping the whole thing off, but its important to socialise and see loved ones and start to normalise your newfound sobriety even at Christmas! Here are some things to consider, especially if this is your first Christmas in recovery.

• Keep your routine! We know how much a good routine can help us feel in control and comfortable. Just because the structure has gone doesn't mean your routine needs to. Get up at your usual time, plan your days like you would at any other time of the year, keep your bed time routine in place. Keeping business as usual will help you keep business as usual!

• Be prepared to say no! Saying no can be challenging at times, especially during the holidays. But it's necessary if something is likely to endanger your sobriety. Staying in one night when you're feeling overwhelmed or leaving that party early is ok. Some people might not understand how difficult it can be for you to control. Only you know what's best for you in any given situation, so do what you feel is best for your recovery, regardless of how it might make others feel.

• Take time for Self-Care! Self-care, meditation and mindfulness are essential to keeping your feet firmly on the ground at Christmas. With all the food, fun and distractions it can be difficult to take some time out for you each day. Setting alarms every night to remind you to take some you-time allows you to plan your self-care around your plans for the following day. Whether that's a walk in nature before visiting friends, some breathing exercises after lunch or a 10-minute meditation to recentre your mind when you first wake up.

• Create a new tradition! Christmas is a time of traditions. Hot chocolate by the fire on Christmas Eve or Boxing Day morning walk, to burning a letter to your old self on Christmas night as a reminder of how far you've come. It can be what ever you want it to be, but its important to remind yourself of the freedom and power you have in recovery and not focus on the things you're not able to do anymore.

For more information about Becky Risley's role as UWE's Specialist Drug and Alcohol practitioner click here . For further support and information about UWE services click here .