A big part of staying sober and avoiding relapse is gaining a sense of control over your cravings. To help switch your focus away from drugs or alcohol, addiction experts advise creating a list of “anti-drug” and/or “anti-drink” activities. These simple actions are meant to serve as healthy distractions and to fill your time by giving you positive things to do.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the people who are most successful at staying sober do two anti-drugs/ drinks in particular: go to counseling and join a self-help group.
Here are a few more suggestions from SAMHSA that might work for you:
- Chew gum when you crave a drug or drink.
- Call your self-help group sponsor or a friend instead of going to places where you might use.
- Watch movies.
- Shoot some baskets with friends.
- Read an inspirational book.
- Keep pictures of your children in your pocket as motivation to stay away from alcohol and drugs.
- Join a faith organization that supports recovery.
- Find a volunteer position that keeps you busy and away from others who use.
- Pray or meditate.
- Practice mindfulness.
Take this list of ideas and add a few of your own. The more anti-drugs/anti-drinks you have the better, notes SAMHSA. Consider brainstorming with your addiction counselor or peers to come up with activities that align with your personal interests and individual recovery goals.
Relapse Prevention at Complete Harmony
To prevent relapse and ensure long-term sobriety, it’s crucial to have long-term strategies for dealing with physical and psychological cravings, negative patterns, emotional duress, poor self-esteem and more. Our holistic approach to recovery helps clients change behaviors from the inside out; rather than just putting a bandage on addictive tendencies. To learn more about our alternative relapse prevention program, call today: 866-930-4673.
