University of Delaware
12/12/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/12/2025 14:59
oliday Support for Loved Ones
Holiday Support for Loved Ones
Article by Jessica Henderson Illustration by Jeffrey C. Chase / Photos by Maria Errico and courtesy of Raphael Travis. December 12, 2025
UD faculty share guidance for supporting family members with substance use disorders this holiday season
One of the hallmarks of the holidays is gathering with family, often for special meals with festive foods and drinks. But these traditions can be challenging for those struggling with substance use, especially if they plan to attend celebrations that involve alcohol or have previously used substances to cope with difficult family relationships.
Valerie Earnshaw and Raphael Travis, professors who study health and wellbeing in University of Delaware's College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), offer support for those individuals and their families this holiday season. Drawing from their research and clinical practice, they discuss some of the challenges of the season and ways to support loved ones.
Navigating holiday events and expectations
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