Avoid these Common Substance Abuse Triggers

There’s a misconception that people have recovered for good when they complete addiction rehab. Most of those in recovery, however, admit to struggling with the condition sometimes. It’s not easy to stay sober when life events cause stress or other triggers. Despite that, avoiding common substance abuse triggers is possible.

How to Avoid Common Substance Abuse Triggers

Slip-ups can occur suddenly even for the most vigilant people in recovery. However, you can avoid a full relapse if you recognize your triggers. In most cases, triggers are people, places, situations or objects that make you want to use drugs or take a drink. Take a look below at some of the most common ones and how to avoid them.

Boredom and Free Time

Relapse from boredom can sneak up on you if you don’t recognize the problem. When you have too much time on your hands, your mind can wander. You could think about drugs and use them again.

To avoid boredom, you need hobbies. Doing an activity that you like, such as exercising, writing or painting, keeps your mind busy. Spending time with supportive friends and family is another healthy way to avoid boredom.

Untreated Mental Disorders

It’s common for people with addiction to develop other mental health disorders. However, the presence of a mental disorder can also lead to addiction. Since they affect each other, it’s essential that you receive dual diagnosis treatment for both. Getting treatment for addiction but not your mental illness only sets you up for relapse.

Celebrations and Events

It’s unfortunate, but having a good time is one of the most common substance abuse triggers. A lot of people drink alcohol when they celebrate a milestone or go to parties. These situations are big triggers if you have an alcohol abuse disorder. The presence of alcohol can even be a trigger if you have some other substance addiction.

The simple way to avoid these triggers is to not go to celebrations and events for a while. However, that’s not very practical. Instead, ask friends and family to refrain from drinking at small gatherings to support you. If you attend larger parties such as those for New Year’s, take your own drinks. You may also want to invite other sober people as support.

Relationship Stress

Conflicts in your relationships, whether at home or at work, can cause stress that makes you want to use again. The best way to avoid this stress is to develop communication skills and relaxation techniques. These can help you diffuse conflicts or at least provide a way to stay calm.

Learn More About Avoiding Triggers

Do you have a drug or alcohol use disorder? You can get the help that you need to overcome it and avoid drug relapse at Beaches Recovery. We offer many programs and services, including:

• Detox at Tides Edge
• Gender-specific rehab
• Dual diagnosis treatment
• Mindfulness based treatment
• Family therapy
• Coping skills for recovery

Don’t let triggers keep you from staying sober. Learn more about how to avoid common substance abuse triggers during rehab at Beaches Recovery. We can help you stay sober for a lifetime. Reach out to us today at 866.605.0532.