On the road to recovery, it’s essential to learn how to navigate high-risk triggers without the fear of giving in and relapsing. There are many useful coping mechanisms that a person can learn in treatment, during aftercare, from anonymous meetings, from others in recovery, and from a sober sponsor that can help you on your journey to create a positive and healthy lifestyle and maintain lasting sobriety.
If you or someone you know is struggling to maintain sobriety, reach out to the professionals at Silicon Beach Tx at [Direct] to speak with a trained representative. At Silicon Beach Tx, clients work with our medical doctors and mental health practitioners to develop personalized treatment plans. We look forward to assisting you on your journey toward lasting recovery.
What Are Addiction Triggers?
Addiction triggers can be internal, emotional, situational, and environmental. Certain situations may result in strong emotional responses, which can lead to the temptation to relapse. However, exposure to triggers does not mean a person will inevitably relapse. Learning how to navigate triggers safely can build a tolerance to handle them without feeling overwhelmed or having cravings. This response is integral to the recovery process and helps a person lead a healthy and successful sober life.
It’s essential to be aware of the triggers that can act as a tripwire in your brain. These internal or external cues that lead to temptation and cravings need to be kept in check, especially when you are in stressful situations that tax your willpower.
After a person has been in recovery for years, they are increasingly likely to have built up strong barriers against triggers. This fortitude means they are more likely to be able to engage in situations that previously may have seemed too triggering without the risk of relapse.
Examples of Common Addiction Triggers
Stress is one of the most common triggers. Especially when a person has just started recovery, it’s a good idea to limit stress in daily life. This limitation includes responsibilities at home, the workplace, and social gatherings.
Negative emotions are a common stressor. You may feel guilt, shame, and embarrassment surrounding substance abuse and addiction. Many situations arise that can put you in a negative headspace. Finding ways to get yourself out of these headspaces as quickly as possible and avoiding circular negative thoughts is important. Remember, you are moving forward as a new person.
Exposure to substance use, drinking, and other vices is a common problem for those in recovery. Especially for individuals who have recently begun their recovery journey, it’s a good idea to avoid situations where drug or alcohol use is likely.
What to Do When Confronted with Triggers
Most situations have at least a few potential pitfalls. It’s a good idea to figure out where the potential for problems may come from and have a plan to prevent them from causing a problem at the moment.
Having a friend or sober sponsor available during a stressful event is always a good idea in case someone goes awry. This way, you have a person you can reach out to immediately by text or call to let them know that you have encountered a problem. This person should be willing to make themselves available to talk you out of negative thinking or temptations. They should be an active listener and effective at helping you find your bearings when you’re in a difficult headspace.
How to Avoid High-Risk Triggers in Life Situations
Thinking ahead can help you avoid high-risk triggers. For instance, if you plan to attend an event, make sure there is something you can safely eat and drink. If it’s a drinking holiday, you may want to make an excuse to avoid the event entirely. Remember, there will be other opportunities.
Get in the habit of feeling comfortable bringing something with you that you can drink at events. Examples include:
- Seltzer
- Mineral water
- Tea
- Soda
If you’re drinking from a cup, it’s not likely someone will interrogate you about what’s in the cup. Making choices that keep you safe is most important at the end of the day.
Healthy Coping Mechanisms for Trigger Management
There are healthy and unhealthy approaches to managing triggers in a situation. When exposed to a trigger, try to take a breath and consider possible positive and healthy responses, including:
- Pay attention to your breathing
- Close your eyes and count to ten
- Leave a situation that feels unmanageable
Contact Us Today to Learn More about Addiction Recovery
Silicon Beach Tx addiction treatment programs and services can help you and your loved ones learn how to navigate difficult situations and avoid high-risk triggers on the path to lasting recovery. On the journey to recovery, a person must learn how to redefine what makes a meaningful and worthwhile life. Life always has setbacks, but the negative consequences of relapse are too risky. It’s essential to find ways to avoid relapse at all costs. Reach out to the professionals at Silicon Beach Tx today at [Direct] to speak with a specialist about addiction triggers, recovery, and how you can begin your path towards lasting sobriety.
