Coping with Substance Cravings

Cravings are normally part of addiction that leads the person to feel a strong desire for the substance. Cravings are the major contributors in encouraging the person to keep on doing the addictive behavior. Thus, it is important to learn coping strategies to resist them.

Any person who is involved with any addictive behavior will most likely experience the disturbing feelings of cravings and longings. It is important for these people to understand that craving is normal and common. When cravings occur, it does not necessarily mean that something is wrong or the person wants to use drugs badly. These feelings of longings will decrease in power over time. A person can make this decrease possible by applying some coping strategies that might work for you in addiction services center. Treatment Hope Recovery Program includes these strategies in their treatment programs to help patients deal with the cravings that will probably occur after leaving the rehab.

Distract yourself. Most of the time, distraction is an effective way to deal with cravings from any addictive substance, especially doing some physical activities. It will be helpful to make a list of some physical activities that help patients in resisting with future cravings. Physical activities may include regular exercise, doing some relaxation techniques, playing sports and/or taking a walk. Creating that kind of list may lessen the chances that the patient will use addictive substances. When urges occur, doing something and going somewhere safe will be helpful.

Let others Know. For most people, expressing how they really feel about their craving can help them be more in control. Having a positive companion is a great idea when someone is trying to quit using drugs or alcohol. If you have a sober loved one that you can talk to, let them know that you need them to say anything, let them know that you just need someone who will listen and understand the situation you’re going through.

Meditate. Meditation and relaxation clears the mind and let it feel a sense of peace. It is easy to teach yourself the right way to meditate. It can even lead you to greater spiritual consciousness. Treatment Hope Recovery Program teaches the different ways to self-meditate. If you try meditation, you can try to meditate anywhere, anytime.

Recall negative consequences. When cravings occur, people tend to recall only the pleasure that the substance can bring and often forget about the negative effects it may bring. Thus, remembering the consequences of their substance addiction in the past can be helpful for them to resist the urge to use. Through this strategy, people will be reminded that they won’t feel any better if they use.

In handling cravings, it is essential to consider both the automatic feelings and the effective ways to deal with them. Patients who are in are in addiction services center are able to support their continued sober lifestyle by being more aware in avoiding the places, people and circumstances that prompt you to use the substance again.

Cravings to use the substance can be devastating. Call Treatment Hope Recovery Program now at 916-226-5130 and talk to our addiction specialist, and have a free consultation.