Life after rehab can be a challenge, especially when faced with the realities of dealing with substance-related triggers and cravings. These powerful urges can often push someone right back to their old patterns, making lasting recovery an almost impossible achievement.
But this doesn’t have to be your reality. Keep reading to find out 7 proven strategies for managing triggers and cravings so that you build inner strength enough to maintain sobriety no matter what comes your way.
Understand what a craving is and how it can be triggered
One of life’s most challenging obstacles is maintaining life after rehab, as cravings can be a major hurdle. It’s essential to understand what a craving really is, and how it can be triggered.
A craving is an intense desire for a particular substance that impels someone towards relying on it frequently or compulsively. Triggers of cravings are all around us; from seeing some food to simply hearing someone talk about it, thoughts and memories can lead to a powerful, seemingly uncontrollable urge.
To ward off these triggers, life after rehab requires developing self-control mechanisms that help with day to day life.
Avoid people, places, and things that trigger cravings
One of the most important things to do is to avoid any people, places, and things that might trigger cravings. Keeping yourself surrounded with supportive friends and family is a great way to stay on track and make sure you don’t fall back into old habits.
Additionally, if you find yourself in a situation that might lead to indulging a craving, such as being at a party where alcohol is being served for example, it is best not to put yourself in an uncomfortable position and try to make your way out as quickly as possible. Hence, avoiding people, places, and things that trigger cravings can help ensure life after rehab remains free of addiction.
Deal with stress in healthy ways
It’s important to find healthy ways to deal with the challenges that come after rehab. It’s also key to avoid triggers and cravings that could lead to relapse. Fortunately, it is possible to deal with stress in healthy ways that will benefit both your mind and body.
Developing a mindfulness practice or herbal remedies are two tools that many people use to cope with everyday life stresses, especially life after rehab. Taking time for yourself to do something you enjoy can help to relax your body and mind from the overwhelming stress of life.
From aromatherapy to yoga and even taking walks in nature, these activities can greatly reduce negative feelings while building resilience. While these activities may not completely solve life’s difficulties and worries, they can provide an opportunity to stay calm and centered which could be the key to dealing with triggers and cravings.
Create a support system of friends and family who will help you stay on track
This network of individuals should understand the struggles that come with life after rehab, such as the potential to experience triggers and cravings. That being said, having an understanding network of people to rely on to keep you focused and motivated will allow you to progress in your recovery goals greatly.
These support systems may include family members, close friends, or even group meetings specifically designed for those looking for support in life after rehab. Whatever method you choose, ensure that it was made with intention and will provide long-term health and encouragement as you move forward on this journey.
Stay busy – keep your mind occupied with positive thoughts and activities
It’s essential to stay busy and keep your mind focused on positive activities in order to avoid any triggers and cravings. Keeping yourself occupied will help distract you from any negative thoughts, while also allowing you to build healthy life skills that will last a lifetime.
It’s also a great way to find purpose, identity, and fulfillment; things that are often lost during an addiction. Lastly, having something meaningful or enjoyable to do keeps you from over-analyzing life’s difficulties – instead focus on what you love doing and make life better for yourself.
Practice self-care – take time for yourself to relax and rejuvenate
You’ll need to practice self-care in order to stay on the path of sobriety. Taking time to relax and rejuvenate doesn’t mean that life must stop entirely, either.
Consider finding a hobby like yoga or creative outlets such as painting and drawing – something positive that makes you feel happy and alive!
Makeup can be a great source of joy, therapeutic even, so indulge in some luxurious premade volume eyelash extensions every now and then. Self-care isn’t only about splurging, but also making wise decisions that enable you to prioritize and nurture yourself. So if it helps feed your spirit, don’t hesitate and treat yourself.
Seek professional help if needed
Life after rehab is filled with new challenges and it can be difficult to maintain sobriety in the long-term. To make sure you stay on track, it’s important to avoid triggers and cravings that tempt you. If those become too much, it might be time to seek professional help.
Talking with a therapist or life coach who understands addiction can provide you with new strategies and coping mechanisms for continued recovery. There are even prescription medications such as Baclofen that can reduce cravings and help curb addiction in certain situations. Having support from professionals is an important aspect of life after rehab, so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance if needed.
Key Takeaways
It’s important to remember that you are strong and capable of managing your triggers and cravings even after going through rehab. Remaining aware and reminding yourself of the strategies you’ve learned can help you have a successful life after rehabilitation. Take the time to celebrate when you’ve achieved small victories. Maintaining connection with your friends and family is also essential for finding support during your recovery journey. And lastly, staying mindful of what thoughts and feelings bring about triggers or cravings is crucial in preventing relapse in the future. Congratulations on getting this far!
