As October winds down, the season shift itself can be a good prompt for reflection. Shorter days, colder weather, and the transition into the holiday season often bring more stress, more isolation, and, for people managing substance use, more triggers than usual.
Why this time of year matters
Fall and early winter are notoriously difficult for mental health. Seasonal changes affect mood and energy. This time of year those with chronic health issues and mental health struggles often experience "the October slide” where energy wanes, symptoms increase, days get darker, etc etc.
Then we have holiday planning which brings up family dynamics, financial pressure, and packed schedules. For anyone in recovery or trying to stay ahead of substance use concerns, this stretch of the year deserves extra attention, not because something is wrong, but because being proactive now makes the next few months easier.
A few honest questions worth asking yourself
Have I been isolating more than usual lately?
Am I using substances (or thinking about it) differently than I did a few months ago?
Do I have support in place before the holidays hit?
Am I white-knuckling something I could actually get help with?
There's no wrong answer here. The point isn't to diagnose yourself, it’s to sit with yourself and notice. Once we notice we can do something about it.
You don't have to wait for it to be really bad for you to get support.
One of the most common things we hear from new clients is some version of "I probably should have come in sooner." Therapy, and group support in particular, works best as a proactive tool, not just a last resort. (Not saying that it can’t work for both.)
If any part of this check-in resonated, our substance use recovery and prevention group is a low-pressure way to get support before the holiday season adds more weight. Whether you're in active recovery, questioning your relationship with substances, or simply want prevention-focused support, there's a seat for you.
Reach out to speak with a therapist one on one or for couples to find support throughout the holiday season.
Written by Megan Davidson, LPC
Megan Davidson is a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Candor Therapy Network in Richmond, VA, with over 10 years of experience providing individual and group therapy. She is passionate about creating a practice where clients receive honest, compassionate, and personalized care. Megan is licensed in Virginia and assists in overseeing Candor's clinical team and marketing endeavors.