Addiction recovery is an ongoing process. Many people living with addiction struggle to stay sober. Opioid addiction, in particular, has an exceptionally high relapse rate. Emotional triggers, such as stress, depression and anxiety, and environmental triggers, like places and people that remind a person of using, can make recovery challenging. While it may feel virtually impossible to avoid these triggers, there are several healthy skills you can use to cope with addiction.
1. Relaxing
Some people use opioids to reduce stress. When you focus on new, healthy ways to de-stress instead, you can reduce the urge to turn to opioids for relief. Check out these common relaxation techniques and find strategies that work for you:
- Meditating
- Practicing yoga
- Taking a hot bath
- Drinking herbal tea
- Walking
- Spending time outside
- Listening to music
- Reading
- Watching movies
2. Using Your Support System
Support from loved ones is essential to your recovery. They can help you stay on track and get through difficult periods. When you feel tempted to use, consider reaching out to your support system. You can share your struggles or have light conversations to lift your mood, change your perspective and feel connected.
3. Staying Active
Physical activity releases serotonin and endorphins, which stabilize your mood and increase feelings of happiness. Walking, hiking, jogging and other forms of exercise can help you reduce any triggering feelings and improve your physical and mental health.
4. Eating Well
Your body needs nutritious foods to function properly. Skipping meals decreases your blood sugar levels, causing your body to produce more cortisol. Cortisol creates physical stress symptoms, like increased blood pressure and heart rate. As a result, you may be tempted to turn to opioids for stress relief. Maintaining a balanced diet can help prevent these feelings and protect your sobriety.
5. Being Honest
It can be difficult to share what you’re going through with others. However, being honest with yourself and those around you can help in your recovery. For example, expressing how you feel can help you let go of negative, triggering emotions. Additionally, admitting when you have a craving is a meaningful step toward getting the support you need.
Get Professional Help Coping With Addiction
At Health Care Resource Centers (HCRC), we help people develop the skills they need to manage their opioid addiction. We provide addiction counseling, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and personalized care to help you on your recovery journey. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
