Addiction cravings can continue to be troublesome even years after addiction treatment. Although the severity of cravings differ depending on the case, there are steps that any recovering addict can take to avoid their triggers and a relapse. Addiction cravings can be hard to deal with, but making some of these changes to your routine can help to make this part of addiction recovery easier. Here are 5 things that you can do to resist cravings during and after alcohol or drug addiction recovery.
Keep Yourself Busy
Limiting the amount of idle time in your life is one of the easiest ways to avoid addiction triggers both during and after an Austin drug detox. You can do this in various ways. Some examples of productively using your free time are starting a hobby, joining a class, having an exercise routine, and entertaining yourself with activities that interest you. Starting to exercise or learning a new skill is great for establishing long term goals and boosting self esteem. Joining a class for these things also has the added benefit of improving your social life. However, even just doing things like watching movies, reading books, and playing games can help to distract you from addiction cravings.
Treat Yourself to a Snack
Treating yourself to a snack or nonalcoholic drink instead of drugs or alcohol can be a great tactic for battling addiction cravings when done in moderation. This is especially true for those recovering from alcohol addiction. Oftentimes alcoholic beverages contain large amounts of sugar, and sometimes entertaining these sugar cravings can help distract from the root alcohol withdrawal cravings. However, in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle this needs to be done carefully, and it is crucial to avoid having this be your only coping mechanism.
Talk About Your Cravings
Communicating your thoughts and concerns around your treatment and cravings is a key element for a successful addiction recovery. Talking about things like your triggers and emotions can keep your support system in the loop with your treatment progress. In addition, talking about these challenges can help you to feel better about your situation. Therapy is a great option for those really struggling with their mental health during this time as well.
Have a Routine
Establishing and sticking to a daily routine is a great way to keep yourself busy and curb addiction cravings. Things as simple as having a set time to wake up, eat meals, and go to sleep can help shape a healthy and productive lifestyle. Creating a to-do list and callendar are ways that you can ensure that you make the most of your time during sober living homes as well, and starting this routine early on can make the transition back into a healthy and sober lifestyle easier.
Practice Mindfulness
Incorporating practicing mindfulness into your daily routine helps with reducing stress and anxiety. This can be done through meditation or last minute breathing exercises when particularly stressful events occur. You can also add the practice of mindfulness to your exercise routine through yoga.
