Tools for Helping in Addiction Recovery

They say that recovery is a life-long process for drug or alcohol addiction. One can never truly put their guards down and think it will be okay if they act upon their cravings once in a while, when the cravings do come.

Even recovered addicts have to constantly stay alert and have high self-awareness in order for them to determine immediately if they are falling down the same pattern again. It is, of course, difficult as well for the surrounding family and friends to see someone go through the same challenges again and again.

That is why it is highly important that recovering addicts be given tools that can aid them in their recovery, such as the following:

Avoid High-Risk Situations

In rehabilitation, there is an acronym that sums up the possible high-risk situations that can lead a recovering addict to lose progress: HALT.

This stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired. To any other person, these are merely simple everyday things. For someone recovering from alcohol or drug abuse, these are potential triggers. Fortunately, though, because these are considerably regular things, it means that it can be anticipated.

That means that the person can take steps to avoid the escalation of these particular feelings. Eat a timely, balanced meal. Avoid confrontations if the anger is too much to have a rational conversation. Seek company from friends, but avoid going to places that can further trigger you, such as bars.

Having a plan on what to do in case intense cravings come can help someone in addiction recovery to better deal with it.

Support Groups

Attending support group meetings is usually part of the after-care program. The process of recovery can feel very isolating, with those recovering feeling like their friends and family can never truly understand what they’re going through.

A support group provides a recovering addict with a support system that knows what they’re going through because they share the same experiences. It is also a great way to learn from each other.

Recovery Apps and Self-Help Books

Recovery apps are great tools because they can be very effective in holding one accountable for their actions. It can help keep them in check and aware of their progress, which is especially crucial for those outside of a program.

Most importantly, it can help the person stay committed, focused, and motivated during this very trying time of recovery.

Rest & Relaxation

Stress is one of the biggest triggers of addiction. It can lead to high-risk situations, such as the ones mentioned above, and can wear down a recovering person enough to drop all efforts.

One of the ways to combat stress is to take the time for some rest and relaxation. It may sound like such a simple solution--and it actually is--but it can be difficult, especially for those who are used to a high-intensity lifestyle.

Doing meditation, going for a long, quiet walk, or gardening, or going for some pampering time at the spa should help.