Read the latest and greatest from our team
of incredible specialists.
Beach House Recovery Center » Blog » Tax Day – How to Handle This Common Trigger for Addiction Relapse
It’s probably safe to say that everyone dislikes Tax Day. When April 15 arrives, along with the date on the calendar is the sometimes aggravating, sometimes worrisome, always necessary requirement to file and possibly pay taxes that are due. For some, having put careful thought into the amount of withholding or set money aside to pay for at least what is estimated to be due, it’s not that big a deal. Others, however, face quite a different experience. For some in recovery, Tax Day can even be a trigger for addiction relapse.
How can you handle this situation? While unnerving, Tax Day doesn’t have to cue triggers that ratchet up stress that results in relapse. There are some precautions, steps and coping measures that you can use – or help your loved one in recovery use – to potentially prevent relapse.
Finances are among the biggest stressors triggering addiction relapse, along with relationships, work and health. When money is tight, especially around Tax Day when you may be facing a bill you can’t pay, the temptation to resort to alcohol or drugs to numb the pain and take away the problems your facing can be overwhelming.
It’s not just you that worry about making ends meet. You’re also keenly aware that your family and loved ones are dependent on you to figure out finances. Even if you’re a co- or equal contributor to the family finances, the bite out of your savings from Tax Day can push you over the edge if you’re not vigilant.
Just as having less money can trigger addiction relapse, the opposite is also true. Knowing you’re sitting comfortably financially may mean that you aren’t anxious or worried about paying your taxes, but having too much money may make you overconfident that you can easily handle anything. You may convince yourself that you can afford to go out and party and escape the consequences. You should know by now, though, that there’s no such thing as “having just one” or being able to drink or do drugs this one time and get away with it.
Whether you’re dealing with the reality of too little or too much money and how to reconcile this fact with your tax bill coming due, the wise course of action to avoid taxes triggering addiction relapse is to have a sound strategy in place and a solid action plan you can implement right away.
Whether you’re researching for yourself or a loved one, Beach House can help. We understand that this is a serious time in your life and that the treatment center you choose matters. We want you to feel comfortable and empowered to make the right decision for yourself, a friend, or a family member. This is why a counselor is waiting and available to answer your questions and help put your mind at ease regarding the next steps. Many of the staff at Beach House have walked in your shoes. If you feel you’re ready or want more information about how to help a loved one, we can help today. You can also learn why we are voted the #1 rehab for addiction treatment in Florida.
"*" indicates required fields