The holiday season, while often filled with joy and celebration, can also bring stress and anxiety, making it a particularly vulnerable time for those struggling with addiction. Family dynamics, financial pressures, and heightened emotions during gatherings can act as triggers, leading individuals to seek comfort in alcohol or drugs. Recognizing these triggers is a crucial step in supporting loved ones during this challenging period. Atlas Novus LLC, a counseling service led by Wade Bergquist in the Saint Paul–Minneapolis metropolitan area, specializes in helping families navigate addiction and its impacts.
Stress and anxiety are common during the holidays, especially when unresolved conflicts or high expectations come into play. For someone in recovery or actively struggling with addiction, these emotions can quickly become overwhelming. Understanding that addiction is not a choice but a condition influenced by various factors is vital. Wade Bergquist and his team at Atlas Novus LLC focus on fostering compassion and building awareness to create healthier environments for individuals battling addiction.
If you have a family member or friend struggling with addiction, it’s essential to approach them with understanding rather than frustration. While it can be tempting to yell or express anger in the heat of the moment, this response is almost always counterproductive. No one wants to be yelled at, especially when dealing with the shame and guilt that often accompany addiction. Instead, offering empathy and compassion can pave the way for meaningful communication and change. Atlas Novus LLC, located in the Saint Paul–Minneapolis metropolitan area, provides resources to help families learn these crucial skills.
One of the most common triggers during the holidays is the presence of alcohol at social gatherings. For someone trying to maintain sobriety, these situations can feel isolating and challenging. Recognizing this struggle and creating an inclusive, supportive environment can make a significant difference. Wade Bergquist of Atlas Novus LLC emphasizes the importance of fostering connection and providing alternatives to high-risk scenarios to reduce stress and temptation.
For friends and family members, setting healthy boundaries while remaining supportive is key. This approach demonstrates care without enabling harmful behaviors. Wade Bergquist and the team at Atlas Novus LLC often counsel families on striking this delicate balance, ensuring that their actions align with promoting long-term recovery. During the holidays, when emotions are heightened, having clear boundaries can create a more stable and positive dynamic.
Compassion, patience, and consistency are critical when supporting someone struggling with addiction. Recognize that recovery is a journey, and progress may be slow or non-linear. In the Saint Paul–Minneapolis metropolitan area, Atlas Novus LLC provides counseling services tailored to these unique challenges, helping both individuals and their loved ones navigate the complexities of addiction.
Yelling or blaming often stems from a place of frustration, but these responses can damage relationships and hinder recovery efforts. Instead, focus on creating an open and non-judgmental space for communication. Wade Bergquist advises that even small acts of kindness and understanding can have a profound impact on someone battling addiction, especially during the high-stress holiday season.
Ultimately, the holidays can be an opportunity for healing and connection rather than conflict. By understanding the triggers of addiction and approaching loved ones with compassion, families can work together to support recovery. Organizations like Atlas Novus LLC, under the guidance of Wade Bergquist, offer valuable tools and resources to help individuals in the Saint Paul–Minneapolis metropolitan area overcome addiction and build a brighter future. With patience and understanding, this season can become a turning point for lasting change.
WADE BERGQUIST | PRINCIPAL
Specializing in behavior/substance compulsion, couples therapy, trauma, and anxiety.
As an experienced psychotherapist, I bring expertise and empathy to my practice. With a Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychology from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota (graduating Cum Laude) and 30 years of experience in the wellness community, I specialize in addressing behavioral compulsion. I have also completed comprehensive substance counseling coursework, enhancing my knowledge. My experience provides me with profound insights into the challenges of compulsive behaviors.
Additionally, I have received training in the Pragmatic-Experiential Method for Improving Relationships (“The PEX Method”). This approach incorporates recent neurobiology and relationship science advancements, providing practical strategies to strengthen connections. I am deeply passionate about couples therapy because I believe that all mental health begins at home, and a healthy home is rooted in strong relationships among primary caregivers. By fostering healthy connections, we can create a nurturing environment that supports the well-being of everyone involved, ultimately leading to improved mental health for families as a whole.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory, which I adapt to meet each client’s unique needs. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and nonjudgmental environment where individuals can explore their challenges, foster self-discovery, and facilitate meaningful change. Whether you are addressing specific issues or seeking personal growth, I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey toward wellness and fulfillment.