People turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with stress or other significant difficulties. Using substances as a way to deal with stress can lead to addiction and puts a person at risk of developing serious mental and physical health complications. When stress levels increase, so does the urge to go back to the addictive substances or addictive behaviors.
After treatment ends and you integrate back into society with a new, sober life, the stress will still be there. Finding healthy replacements for the addictive behaviors will help reduce stress and anxiety. When the urge comes up, the new coping mechanism will reduce the risk of relapse.
Some examples of healthy ways to cope:
- Meditation
- Exercising
- Going for a walk or run
- Talking to someone
- Yoga
- Sports
- Listening to calm, peaceful music
- Breathing techniques
Over time, the urge for coping with stress by using drugs or alcohol will lessen. Getting restful sleep will help to minimize depression, anxiety, and any urge to go back to the addictive behavior. Avoid isolation by talking to friends, getting professional support, or staying in group therapy. Establish connections, talk about your difficulties, and listen to theirs in return.
If you are not emotionally healthy, the risk of relapse is increased. Mental health is a priority because feelings of depression, loneliness, and despair heighten the urge to seek immediate relief, which can lead to addictive substances.
Develop a plan to recognize your triggers and change the environment to avoid temptation. There will be challenges throughout recovery, but identifying people, places, or things that can increase your risk of relapse, some of these can be avoided.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance addiction or an addictive behavior, get help today. Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in treatment for drug and alcohol addiction with a focus on healing the mind, body, and spirit. Make the call today and save yourself from the harmful effects of addiction. Recovery is possible and you are not alone. You can enjoy life without addiction controlling you.
Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in addiction treatment and is located in a serene, remote, lush-green environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy and offers yoga and meditation for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 877-938-1577