Opting for treatment to address substance use disorder is a significant step towards transformation. Yet, the journey of recovery often presents a set of unique and testing challenges. Navigating triggers, which can be any stimuli evoking memories, thoughts, or emotions tied to past substance use, can prove to be one of the most daunting hurdles for individuals in recovery.
Triggers, often testing one’s resolve, can be individualistic or shared among those in recovery. The initial phase of managing triggers involves recognising them. This process not only aids in surmounting them but also offers a chance to delve into and comprehend the roots of the substance use disorder.
For those engaged in recovery and grappling with triggers, it’s essential to recognise that they are not alone. Many individuals who have triumphed over substance use disorder have learned to handle triggers and have gone on to lead harmonious and fulfilling lives.
Unpacking Triggers in the Context of Addiction
Coming to terms with triggers is a common experience shared by many in recovery, and it can be anxiety-inducing for some. For individuals with a history of substance use disorder, triggers can encompass any internal or external cues that strongly and often uncontrollably bring to mind the use of drugs or alcohol. Common emotional triggers might involve emotions like:
- Guilt
- Shame
- Regret
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Grief and loss
- Stress
Triggers can also be external, such as:
- Places like your home, a city, or a bar
- Seeing something on television, the news, or in a movie
- Certain people and social groups
- Responses or reactions from certain family members
Encountering triggers can impact one’s emotional state and potentially intensify the craving to use substances again. In some instances, severe triggers might lead to a relapse. Nevertheless, acquiring the tools to manage triggers is attainable with the proper support.
Unveiling the Culprits: Identifying Triggers
Pinpointing your triggers often serves as the initial stride toward mastering their management.
First and foremost, it’s imperative to comprehend that encountering triggers during recovery doesn’t signify failure. It’s a common aspect of the recovery journey to face triggers. If you find yourself grappling with triggers, endeavour to steer clear of self-criticism. Self-judgment could contribute to emotional turmoil and generate feelings of guilt, which could themselves act as triggers.
Tuning into your thoughts and body reactions within your surroundings can be insightful. For instance, when the urge to use substances arises, take note of your environment and the events leading up to that sensation.
Additionally, maintaining a daily journal wherein you jot down your thoughts, emotions, and experiences can aid in uncovering patterns, incidents, or stimuli that trigger these reactions. Elevating your self-awareness could heighten your prospects of success.
Incorporating a therapist into your journey can be invaluable. Therapists well-versed in substance use disorders can assist in identifying and analysing potential triggers. They can also equip you with new coping mechanisms.
Coping Strategies for Triggers
While grappling with triggers can be stressful, it’s crucial to remember that they are transitory. The discomforting emotions and sensations eventually wane. Equipping yourself with tools to manage triggers can substantially shape your response to them and ultimately aid in your coping.
Develop a Strategy
Devising a strategy for handling triggers can empower you to face them effectively in the future. The components of your strategy can be straightforward, involving steps such as:
- Recognise the trigger.
- Reassure yourself that you do not have to give in to your craving.
- Remove yourself from the situation.
Have a Support System
Having a network of trustworthy individuals can be instrumental in creating your strategy. Informing your loved ones about your experiences and your coping plan can provide you with a safety net. When triggers arise, your support network can assist you in swiftly altering your environment.
Do Things You Love
Discovering activities that bring you joy can serve as an effective means of handling triggers in the moment. Engaging in activities such as:
- jogging or exercise
- painting
- going to the movies
- reading a book
- calling a friend or sponsor
- taking up a hobby
Directing your attention towards activities you find fulfilling can fill the time you might have previously spent on substance use. Additionally, they can provide productive outlets for stress and negative emotions that could have previously triggered substance use.
Preventing Relapse
The process of identifying and managing triggers forms a crucial aspect of recovery. However, recovery is a multi-faceted journey, and there are various treatment tools that can bolster your commitment to sobriety.
Enlist Your Support Network
A robust support network can serve as a potent asset during recovery. Enlist the aid of those you trust to help eliminate any triggers from your surroundings, such as medication or alcohol containers.
Participate in Recovery Programs
Considering participation in a 12-step program and obtaining a sponsor can be highly effective in maintaining sobriety. These programs are tailored to foster accountability and construct a robust support network. Moreover, an array of alternatives to 12-step programs exists, both in-person and through virtual platforms. Recovery apps are also accessible to assist you on your journey.
Embrace Therapy
Therapy stands as a crucial resource for individuals in recovery. A therapist can assist in navigating intricate emotions that might surface during the recovery process. Additionally, therapists can equip you with strategies to manage cravings and triggers.
Some individuals might favour one-on-one therapy over recovery groups or 12-step programs. Others find success in combining therapy with self-help groups or other support mechanisms. The availability of online therapy options further expands the range of choices.
Recovery is a deeply personal expedition, so adopting the approach that resonates most with you is essential. If you haven’t yet identified a therapist you trust, consider consulting with several until you discover a suitable match. Therapy often requires time, so exercising patience with yourself and the process can be pivotal to achieving long-term success.
Create Healthy Habits
Committing to a healthy lifestyle can prove to be a boon during recovery. Strive to integrate positive habits into your daily routine, such as:
- eating nutritious foods
- exercise and move your body
- set a regular sleep schedule
Your body and mind are likely undergoing significant repair and healing during recovery. Prioritising these changes can be essential for your overall physical and mental well-being.
Exploring Outpatient Programs
During the initial months of sobriety, considering participation in an outpatient program can be beneficial if you’re new to the recovery process. At this pivotal juncture, sustaining certain aspects of treatment, such as counselling and interaction with recovery specialists, can be crucial.
Your Unique Path to Recovery
The journey of conquering substance use disorder can be transformative for countless individuals. Nonetheless, it’s not uncommon to encounter triggers along the way.
Triggers possess the ability to evoke intense memories and sensations tied to substance use. These triggers can be intrinsic, rooted in emotions, or extrinsic, emerging from interactions with people, places, and particular stressors.
While triggers might often entice those in recovery to revert to substance use, they can indeed be managed through learned coping strategies.
Embracing your triggers and understanding them represents an effective means of dealing with them. Taking note of your surroundings when triggers arise can aid in their analysis. Maintaining a daily journal might provide insights into certain patterns, which is also great. You should experiment with various strategies to identify what works best for you.
How White River Manor Can Help
We offer our guests individualised programs and luxury individual care at White River Manor. In collaboration with the client, our team of highly qualified therapists, medical professionals, and dependency specialists work to design a program to restore balance and well-being in our guests’ lives.
If you’d like to talk to us about treatment options and how we can help you recover, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our intake team.
