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Aug 31, 2021 · How to Overcome Cravings and Triggers. Even though overcoming cravings and triggers can seem daunting, there are steps you can take to make it easier. No one in recovery is without triggers and cravings, but having a plan in place can keep you from relapsing.
- Accept It. The first step is accepting that cravings are an inevitable and completely normal occurrence in recovery – not a sign that you’ve done something wrong, or failed!
- Use CBT Techniques. CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) offers a variety of helpful techniques – such as redirection, visualization, and distraction – that can help you cope with cravings when they arise.
- Distract Yourself. It’s hard to remember in the heat of the moment, but cravings don’t last forever! They usually pass within 10 to 15 minutes, unless you sustain them by paying them continuous attention.
- Exercise. Exercising when you feel a craving coming on is a wonderful idea for many reasons. First of all, exercise is a great distraction (as mentioned before), especially when playing a team sport that involves social interaction.
Remembering the negative consequences of addiction and envisioning the positive effects in your life can strengthen your resolve to overcome cravings. Another effective way to cope with cravings is through mindfulness techniques.
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- Get rid of those triggers. Triggers jumpstart cravings. Some triggers are obvious, like watching people use drugs, having access to money, or seeing a beer commercial on TV.
- The pause and distract method. The good news: cravings have a tendency to come and go, and they get better with time. Many recovering addicts and alcoholics find it helpful to distract themselves until the craving passes.
- The “good things about not using” method. Consider the reasons you’re quitting. Read the following questions and jot down your answers. Next time you have cravings, pull out the list and read carefully.
- The “Accept” Method. Also called urge surfing, the “Accept Method” involves staying with your craving until it passes. According to the theory of “urge surfing,” you can overpower your opponent by going with the force of the attack.
Apr 19, 2021 · It can be helpful to understand the four steps of the craving cycle that develop from addiction and habits: Cue or trigger. Craving. Response. Reward. Cues and triggers have the power to enhance the desire or craving for your substance of choice.
Jan 14, 2021 · 1. Set a quit date. It might be helpful to choose a meaningful date like a special event, birthday, or anniversary. 2. Change your environment. Remove any reminders of your addiction from your home and workplace. For example, separate from those who would encourage you to be involved with the object of your addiction (drug, alcohol, or behavior).
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May 24, 2024 · According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), addiction is “characterized by intense and, at times, uncontrollable drug craving, 1 along with compulsive drug seeking and use that persist even in the face of devastating consequences.” Cravings are a conditioned response that results from how addiction rewires your brain.
