Understanding Common Addiction Triggers
When you’re on the path toward wellness and recovery from substance abuse and addiction, it isn’t all that uncommon to relapse. However, understanding what situations may compel you to use again can help you to maintain your sobriety.
Stress
Stress is the number one cause of relapse for those struggling with alcohol and drug addiction. This is because, more often than not, people turn to their drug of choice as a coping mechanism to deal with stressful events and situations.
While we can’t always avoid the sources of our stress in everyday life, there are plenty of positive ways to cope with them. Once you’ve identified what is causing your stress levels to rise, try some of the following tips to help you to feel more at ease:
- Take a long walk.
- Try progressive muscle relaxation.
- Practice mindfulness and meditation.
- Try incorporating exercise into your routine.
- Take a hot shower or bath.
Distressing Emotions
Similarly to stress, it is common for addicts to use substances to cope with negative emotions rather than face them head-on. This is because drugs and alcohol can offer temporary relief from these unpleasant feelings.
Rather than trying to cover these emotions, it can be beneficial to acknowledge them and work through them. While therapy and counseling may already be part of your treatment plan, the following tips can help you to work through your thoughts and feelings:
- Talk to someone you trust about your feelings.
- Try journaling.
- Try meditating or praying.
Over-Confidence in Your Sobriety
Whether you’re at a party or spending time with people who still partake in your previous drug-of-choice, it can make you feel compelled to use again because other people are.
Whether you’ve been sober for seven days or seven years, there is always a potential for relapse
Oftentimes when you're dedicated to leading a new life in recovery, you may be overly confident in your ability to remain in control of your compulsion to drink or use drugs. To keep yourself accountable, it may be helpful to bring a loved one that you trust along with you to keep you in line.
Seeking Help at The Good Life Treatment Center
At The Good Life Treatment Center, we’re a different kind of treatment center—we believe in the treatment and recovery of the body, mind, and spirit. We’re committed to working with you to help remove the burdens of shame and guilt that addiction so often brings. We think there’s a better, freer way, to live life.
To learn more about The Good Life Treatment Center, (561) 250-8552 today!
