06 Mar Effective Coping Strategies for Dealing with Cravings

The road to recovery is not an easy one. Anyone who has been through it will tell you of the seemingly endless challenges along the way. However, that doesn’t mean it is impossible. No matter how difficult it might seem, many people reach their abstinence goals, and you can as well. 

Today, the team at Calm Rehab would like to share some expert advice on dealing with cravings. The urge to use occurs multiple times throughout the recovery process, so it is essential to know how to avoid it, identify it, and end it. Remember, nobody is alone on the path to a clean future. Here are some coping strategies everyone should be made aware of because we never know when we might need them. 

Learn how to identify your triggers

One of the primary steps in controlling cravings is identifying what causes them. They will be different for everyone, but they are always identifiable. They may be specific thoughts, activities, people, places, or emotions, but once we know them, we can control them. 

Find healthy distractions

Healthy distractions can serve as a mighty weapon against cravings. Any activity that keeps the mind busy has the potential to help keep someone occupied enough for the cravings to subside. It could be an artistic endeavour or learning a new sport; the key is to avoid boredom at all costs. 

Learn some new relaxation techniques

For many, stress is intertwined with their cravings for drugs and alcohol. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, painting, breathing exercises, or simply going for regular walks can work wonders in reducing stress levels. 

Focus on developing healthy habits

To stay on track with recovery goals, we must retrain our mind and body and form as many healthy habits as possible. These can range from regular exercise to the food we eat. The more we focus on improving our overall health, the less we will have the desire to use. 

Practice mindfulness

When we learn to be present in the moment and let go of our self-judgement, we become more aware of our thoughts, enhancing our ability to focus on a successful recovery. Mindfulness enables us to react less and think more, and this carries through to when our cravings hit.

Don’t be afraid to reach out

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, never be afraid to ask for help. At Calm Rehab, we are dedicated, passionate, caring, experienced, and knowledgeable professionals who know what you’re going through. Contact us today and start the path to a better future.