Rehabilitation from addiction is a challenging journey, but one that is worth the effort. Finding new, healthy coping mechanisms can help to replace destructive ones and can provide long-term relief from addiction. In this blog post, we will explore how to use healthy coping strategies to support rehabilitation from addiction and create a foundation for lasting recovery.
The Roots of Cravings
Cravings are a common symptom of addiction, and they can be difficult to manage. Cravings result from the psychological and physiological changes that occur with drug use. These urges to use substances continue to arise after treatment in part because of the changes that occurred in the brain during the substance use.
Repeated drug use alters the way the brain functions, leading to the association between drug use and the highest sense of reward. This can make it difficult to find pleasure in healthy activities such as eating and exercising. Because of these intense cravings, it is important to develop new coping strategies. This can be found in learning a new skill, exercising, and creating a new routine.
Manage Cravings by Learning New Skills
One of the best ways to cope with addiction recovery is to learn new skills. Learning new skills not only develops a person mentally but also gives them focus. The skill doesn’t have to be anything complicated. It could be something as simple as cooking or knitting. Taking classes or attending workshops can also help to keep a person engaged and interested in something. Boredom can be a common trigger for cravings and relapse. Learning a new skill will also help to provide a sense of accomplishment and pride in its completion.
Cope Through Exercise
Exercise can be an incredibly effective form of self-care for individuals recovering from addiction. According to an article in the British Journal of Pharmacology, exercise can deliver a chemical response in one’s brain that’s similar to a drug high, although on a smaller scale. By introducing physical activity into the recovery process, one can give their body and mind the pleasure it is seeking without putting their sobriety at risk.
Exercise helps to release endorphins and provides the person with an outlet for any stress or anxiety. Additionally, exercise can help build confidence and improve moods, which can be beneficial in keeping addiction triggers at bay.
There are several ways to introduce exercise into one’s recovery journey. Someone can start with something simple like taking a walk or going for a bike ride. Then, as they become more comfortable, they can increase the intensity of the activity by perhaps going for a run. Another way to amplify the pleasurable effects of exercise would be by joining a group class or finding an exercise partner. In time, it will not only seem natural to do this activity but the person will actually crave it.
Create a Routine
The importance of routines can’t be overstated. According to the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) NIH News in Health, “Understanding the biology of how we develop routines that may be harmful to us, and how to break those routines and embrace new ones, could help us change our lifestyles and adopt healthier behaviors.”
Establishing a routine is an essential part of addiction recovery. Having a predictable schedule allows a person to create positive behaviors that can help them cope with daily stresses.
Set Small Goals
Creating a routine involves setting small, achievable goals each day. A person can consider creating a checklist of activities that they want to do each day such as waking up at the same time, eating a healthy breakfast, exercising, meditating, doing a hobby or activity, attending meetings or therapy sessions, and getting enough sleep.
Be Realistic
When creating a routine, be realistic about what you can accomplish. People need to remember that it’s okay to take things one step at a time. They can start by adding one small task each day until they have created a routine. Having a plan in place helps to reduce the stress associated with feeling overwhelmed and out of control.
Take a Break When Needed
If a person finds themselves feeling overwhelmed or triggered by certain tasks or activities, they should remember that it’s okay to take a break and come back to them later. It’s important to recognize when it’s time to take a pause and relax one’s mind and body. Remember to be gentle with oneself and focus on the progress made rather than any slips or mistakes.
Talk to Friends
Making positive changes in one’s life to cope with addiction is not always easy. This is why it is so important to reach out for support from friends, family, and other members of the community.
Talking to a friend can provide an outlet for discussing difficult topics as well as discovering new ideas for coping. For example, friends can help by providing emotional support during tough times, talking through healthy strategies, or even sharing tips on how they have coped in the past.
Peer groups, clubs, and churches are great places to meet like-minded individuals who can lend a hand in overcoming addiction. When someone is feeling alone and without support, they can consider looking into one of these resources to find a group of people who can understand their struggles.
Seek Treatment for Extra Support
If this information seems relevant don’t hesitate to reach out. We at First Steps Recovery can provide additional assistance in finding the right support system. Our facility offers a range of services that include social activities, support groups, individual therapy, and more to help you cope with addiction.
No matter where someone turns for help, remember that talking to a friend can make a huge difference when it comes to overcoming addiction. Try to be honest about your goals and take small steps towards achieving them. Soon it will be clear that recovery is possible.
Addiction recovery doesn’t have to be a painful process. Rehabilitation is a time to discover the sides of yourself you have ignored or neglected. It is a time to build new healthy routines and habits. Although it can be challenging, with support it can be done. If you believe you are struggling with addiction, it is time to reach out to First Steps Recovery. We understand your pain and make it our goal to help you discover yourself again. Addiction does not have to ruin your life. We will help you gain back your freedom. No one should live in defeat and shame. Please call First Steps Recovery at (844) 489-0836 for more information.
Addiction recovery doesn’t have to be a painful process. Rehabilitation is a time to discover the sides of yourself you have ignored or neglected. It is a time to build new healthy routines and habits. Although it can be challenging, with support it can be done. If you believe you are struggling with addiction, it is time to reach out to First Steps Recovery. We understand your pain and make it our goal to help you discover yourself again. Addiction does not have to ruin your life. We will help you gain back your freedom. No one should live in defeat and shame. Please call First Steps Recovery at (844) 489-0836 for more information.
