The holidays are a challenging time those trying to stay sober

Alcohol addiction affects not just one person, but entire families and communities. That's why Dr. M.K. (Khal) El-Yousef founded Fairwinds Treatment Center in 1989, to treat patients with a dual diagnosis methodology that aims to heal communities one family and one patient at a time. 

Dual diagnosis is a treatment process pioneered by Dr. El-Yousef, which involves addressing not only the patient's physical symptoms of addiction but also the psychological triggers that cause them to abuse alcohol in the first place. This holistic approach is the only true way to guide patients on their paths toward long-term recovery. The professionals at Fairwinds believe in healing the mind, body and spirit. 

The holidays can be an especially difficult time for people suffering from alcohol addiction, because there are often parties that involve alcohol as well as friends and family members who could act as stress triggers. The holidays can be a highly emotional season for people, and a time when they assess their lives and remember things both positive and negative that have occurred in the past. 

"Some people may be estranged from family and friends, leading to a sense of loneliness," one researcher told the Sun Herald.

During the holidays, it's important for those who suffer from alcohol addiction to seek out support from friends and family and stay away from people or places that may act as triggers. It's also helpful to distract yourself from drinking with other activities you enjoy. 

If you or your loved one is suffering from alcoholism, contact Fairwinds today to discover what kinds of treatment methods we can offer to help you get through this difficult time.