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Contact: Hillary Angel
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Eat, Drink and Don't Feel Ashamed: Helpful Tips for Addicts

SAN DIEGO, November 2006 – As the holiday season approaches, eating and drinking are unavoidable temptations for some celebrators. Holidays are often the most difficult times of year for food and alcohol addicts. The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) offers advice to those who find mashed potatoes and eggnog a comfort to the annual anxieties of family reunions and other social obligations.

Many people succumb to their addictions during the holidays, not because of the abundance of food but because of heightened levels of guilt and awkwardness due to unresolved issues with family and old friends. Before conversation decibels climb and shoulders shrug, here are some tips to prevent you from prematurely reaching for the leftovers or opening that additional bottle of wine:

• Eat before a party. Eating food high in protein before a party can help curb your appetite.

• Maintain therapy during the holidays. Continue with any therapy sessions, recovery meetings or support systems; keeping up with these important connections are just as imperative during the holidays as any other time of year.

• Rehearse replies to refuse any addictive substances offered to you. For example, “Thank you, but not right now,” “I’ve had my share today,” “I am allergic to that” and “It causes me to break out” are polite comments that can be used for turning down food or alcohol.

• Insist that your guests take home the leftovers.

• Plan activities to follow the feast. Play games or go for a walk. Don’t allow yourself and your guests to sit around and be tempted by leftovers.

• Focus on the reasons for the celebration. Assigning holidays to a meaning and purpose other than eating and drinking can help you stay clean and sober.

Although the holidays can be difficult for food and alcohol addicts, experts can help you celebrate this time of year in a healthy manner. Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs), give aid by offering addiction therapy resources to assist addicts in their recovery during the holidays. For further information or to find a marriage and family therapist, visit www.therapistfinder.com.

About CAMFT The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT), with 27 chapters throughout the state, is an independent professional organization, representing the interests of licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. For more information about CAMFT, please call (858) 292-2638 or visit www.camft.org or www.therapistfinder.com.