Help with Addiction cravings. There are plenty of ways to stop alcohol addiction cravings. I know these work, as I have used them myself many times over the past few years. Addiction sadly does not really go away for good, and alcohol addiction is a hard one, as it is all around you. Even on the TV, pubs, restaurants, advertising etc. So how do you get through your cravings?
Managing addiction cravings can be a significant challenge during the recovery process, but there are strategies that can help you cope effectively. Here are some techniques to consider:
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Identify triggers: Understand the situations, people, emotions, or places that commonly trigger your cravings. By identifying these triggers, you can develop strategies to avoid or minimise their impact on your recovery.
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Distract yourself: Engage in activities that divert your attention away from cravings. This can include exercising, reading, pursuing hobbies, watching movies, or spending time with supportive friends and family.
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Practice relaxation techniques: Use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation to manage stress and reduce cravings.
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Reach out for support: Contact your support network when cravings arise. Call a supportive friend or family member, attend a support group meeting, or connect with an online recovery community. Sharing your struggles and seeking encouragement can help alleviate cravings.
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Delay and distract: When a craving hits, tell yourself you’ll wait for a specific amount of time before giving in. During this waiting period, engage in an activity that occupies your mind and shifts your focus away from the craving.
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Use positive affirmations: Repeat positive affirmations or mantras to yourself to reinforce your commitment to recovery. Examples include, “I am stronger than my cravings” or “I choose a healthier, happier life.”
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Change your environment: If possible, remove yourself from the environment where cravings typically occur. Go for a walk, visit a different location, or engage in a new activity that provides a fresh perspective.
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Practice self-care: Prioritise self-care activities that promote physical and emotional well-being. Get enough sleep, eat balanced meals, exercise regularly, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Taking care of yourself can reduce the intensity of cravings.
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Utilise coping skills: Develop a toolkit of coping skills that help you navigate cravings. This can include journaling, listening to music, practicing a hobby, using stress balls or fidget toys, or engaging in creative outlets.
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Professional guidance: Consider seeking professional help from addiction specialists, therapists, or counsellors who can provide tailored strategies and support to manage cravings. They can assist in exploring underlying issues contributing to cravings and help you develop effective coping mechanisms.
Remember, cravings are a normal part of the recovery process. They will diminish in intensity and frequency over time as you continue to build your resilience and commitment to sobriety. By implementing these strategies and seeking support, you can effectively manage cravings and stay on track with your recovery goals.
Here is a list of 8 ways which work for me.
8 ways to beat addiction cravings
- drink a pint of milk in one go
- eat an orange
- go for a walk / run
- find something creative to do. (Play an instrument, write a song, draw a picture etc)
- do some gardening / cut the lawn
- Think of something else. (It is just a battle between you and your head)
- go to the gym
- do a bike ride
How to beat it
When you get addiction cravings, you feel as though everyone is involved. It is a big thing. But in reality, and the truth is, it is just a battle between you and your head. I feel once you can except the craving are just coming form your head, and they are not real (in a funny sort of way) you can get through this. Just keep telling yourself it is just a game between you and your head. Your head playing tricks on you. Because that is what cravings really are. Do not get me wrong. They are not nice. But if you get them. Look at the list above and take action.
Contact us – Help with Addiction cravings
We can help you get through your cravings. Call us if you are struggling with addiction cravings, and we can work through them together. It is much easy when there are two of you, against your head which is giving the cravings. Call Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)