If you are ready to quit drugs, this article will provide tips for you. If you are struggling with addiction, it is important to know that drug addiction is not a character flaw, a weakness or a moral failing. A drug addiction is a chronic mental health condition that is characterized by the inability to control your drug or alcohol use. While the decision to use drugs is often voluntary, repeatedly using the drugs may lead to brain changes that will make it difficult for some people to quit. Fighting an addiction is not a matter of willpower or desire, it’s a matter of acknowledging you have a problem and seeking help.
The toughest step towards recovery is the first step which is recognizing that you have a problem and deciding to change. Committing to Sobriety involves changing many things like what you do in your free time, the way you deal with stress, the company you keep and the prescription and over the counter medicine you take.
Tips to help you overcome addiction
- Admit the fact that you have a problem: Recognizing that you have a problem is the first step towards recovery.
- Speak with a therapist: A therapist can help you assess your needs and provide advice about how to proceed with getting the help you need.
- Identify your triggers: Being aware of the specific issues, places and other factors that causes you to crave drugs, or alcohol can help you make a plan to avoid these triggers so you will be less likely to use.
- Speak with a physician: Your physician can help assess the problem and assess any potential signs of withdrawal or withdrawal risks and advise you about the type of detox or treatment settings that may be best for you.
- Attend a peer support group: This can include 12 step groups like Narcotics Anonymous or non-12-step groups like SMART recovery. They are designed to help you stay sober through the mutual support provided by others who are also in recovery and who knows what it’s like to be in your shoe.
- Learn healthy ways to cope with stress: Finding ways to deal with stress is an essential part of your recovery. There are different stress relief strategies, and they include, moving, play with your pet, stepping outside to savor fresh air, exercising, and pampering yourself. The key is to find one that works best for you.
- Use caution with prescription drugs: If you were addicted to a prescription drug, such as an opioid painkiller, you may need to talk to your doctor about finding alternate ways to manage pain. Regardless of the drugs you experienced problems with, it is important to stay away prescription drugs with the potential to abuse.
How to cope with drug cravings
- Get involved in a distracting activity: You need to find an activity that can take your mind off of your cravings, e.g. reading, see friends, watch a movie, exercise or hike.
- Talk it through: Talking can be very helpful in pinpointing the source of cravings. Talking about craving can also help to discharge and relieve the feeling.
- Challenge and change your thoughts: It may be helpful to remind yourself about the negative consequences of using,