Craving is one of the most common problems people have in recovery. They are hard to face and often show up unexpectedly. The good news is, however, that cravings can be managed. With the right tools and a treatment center in Massachusetts, you can address these issues head-on and come out the other side better off.
Recovery is much more than staying free from drugs—you need to create a life where you feel powerful even in trying circumstances, and that’s what we promote at Berkshire Mountain Health.
If you’re serious about transforming your life, we encourage you to contact our treatment center in Massachusetts. In the meantime, let’s examine some realistic ways to combat cravings and stay in control of your everyday life.
What Triggers Cravings?
Most cravings don’t just appear out of thin air. They are associated with triggering situations that cause memories or feelings related to previous substance use. It could be because you’re walking by a place where you used to drink or because you’ve had a long day and you’re trying to handle the stress.
External (People, Places, Events) or Internal (Emotions, Sensations)
Cravings are closely linked to substance use disorders for many, but they are not isolated. Mental health disorders or post-traumatic stress disorder can exacerbate the intensity of cravings, so it’s even more critical to understand and address what’s behind them.
Craft a Plan to Manage Cravings with A Treatment Center in Massachusetts
Cravings aren’t permanent. They tend to come in waves and peak in intensity before fading away. It’s what you do at the moment that matters most. If these descriptions sound familiar and you want to be grounded and in control, here are some strategies worth employing:
Practice Mindfulness
A lot of times, cravings make you feel like you are on autopilot and reacting to urges without thinking. Mindfulness is invaluable here. Watching your thoughts and feelings “play out” without judging them can help you do just that.
Test this out: Find your peaceful place, shut your eyes, and inhale deeply and slowly. Note how your body feels. Where does the craving appear—your stomach, your chest, or somewhere else? Remember that this is only temporary and that you are in charge.
Mindfulness is not about getting rid of urges. It’s about changing your relationship with them. It’s only natural that the more one practices, the more one is able to ride out the wave.[1]
Distract Yourself
Sometimes, changing your focus is the best way to deal with cravings. Distraction techniques can help you shift your focus away from your craving—until the craving is gone. You’re giving your brain a chance to hit the pause button. Some ideas include:
- Take a quick walk or run.
- Call a friend on the phone.
- Do something you like, like drawing, cooking, or gardening.
- Play songs or podcasts that make you laugh.
The trick is to find something that completely occupies your mind. Even a 10-minute distraction can go a long way.
Learn to Identify Your Triggers with A Treatment Center in Massachusetts
Knowing how to battle your cravings starts with knowing what’s causing them. Everyone has different triggers. For some, it’s a particular place or group of people. For others, it’s a stressful situation or an unresolved emotional issue.
Identify your triggers, and take some time to write down a plan for getting rid of them. If they are too hard to face right now—too hard even to look at—remember, you’re allowed to avoid them. Where you can’t avoid the trigger, prepare yourself by doing coping strategies in advance.
At Berkshire Mountain Health, we help clients overcome these triggers in a safe and supportive environment. We’re here to help whether you’re in a residential program or transitioning back to daily life.
Lean on Your Support Network
You don’t have to do this alone. Having a strong support network is everything to keep you on track. Find people who know what you’re going through and want to see you succeed. This might include:
- People who want you to stay sober, like family and friends.
- A mentor or a sponsor that can help you.
- People who have been through the same things (support groups).
Reaching out to others when you are struggling takes courage and reflects your strength. Attending group therapy or calling a trusted friend can encourage you until the craving passes.
Address Emotional Triggers
Cravings can be triggered by anything that causes stress, loneliness, or frustration. A key part of long-term recovery is learning to recognize and manage these feelings. Managing emotional triggers will empower you to combat cravings before they get out of control.[2]
That’s where therapy comes in. With individual counseling or group therapy, there’s a chance to uncover the reasons for your cravings and learn new ways of coping. Cognitive behavior therapy can break you out of unhelpful thinking that prevents you from keeping an eye on the prize.
Connect with a treatment facility to ensure you get the support you need. We encourage you to contact our treatment center in Massachusetts. Visit Berkshire Mountain Health today to start your journey.
Stay Active
Physical activity is good for your body and a great way to manage cravings. Exercise releases endorphins, feel-good chemicals that can help improve your mood and reduce stress.
You don’t have to commit to a rigorous workout routine to reap the benefits. Sometimes, all you need to feel better and end the bad feeling is to go on a simple walk in nature, do a yoga session, or dance to your favorite music.
Focus on Self-Care After Your Stay at A Treatment Center in Massachusetts
The tricky thing is that recovery is about more than not using. Remember what we said earlier: you need to create a fulfilling, balanced life. That’s where self-care comes in. Make sure you’re prioritizing:
- Nourishing meals that feed your body.
- A sleep plan to stay alert.
- Deep breathing or meditation to calm down.
You might think taking care of yourself sounds like a small step, but it can make a big difference in managing cravings and staying motivated.
Berkshire Mountain Health: Your Journey with A Treatment Center in Massachusetts Begins Here
At Berkshire Mountain Health, we understand that cravings are a normal part of the recovery process. That’s why we concentrate on providing our clients with practical tools to deal with these challenges confidently.
Our treatment center in Massachusetts offers programs like inpatient medical detox and long-term aftercare planning. These programs allow us to be here for you at all stages of your recovery. Start your journey to freedom by calling or visiting Berkshire Mountain Health today.
Sources:
[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6247953/
[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7186308/
Alexis earned both a B.S. in Psychology and a B.S. in Family and Child Sciences from Florida State University and an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of San Diego. She holds licenses in Marriage and Family Therapy in Florida, Connecticut, and Massachusetts and is also a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).
Alexis works with families, couples, children, and groups and also has a sub-specialty in addiction and recovery. She utilizes an integrated, systemic approach to counseling; empowering people to define what is not working for them in their lives and to discover the possibilities for making life work. In doing this, clients are guided towards identifying their strengths, accessing their resources, tapping into their potential for success, and taking action toward achieving their desired goals.
Alexis also has extensive experience in the administration of behavioral health organizations. She has developed, built, and supervised several facilities encompassing all levels of care while leading them through state licensing and The Joint Commission accreditation process.
