Ellen Rehm
When people are trying to stop the usage of alcohol or drugs, it can be hard. How one views their own cravings will determine how much power they have over them. If one believes a craving will not naturally go away once it begins, or if one thinks that the only way to deal with a craving is to drink or use drugs, then of course the person will be powerless over them. Making yourself aware of what things in life tend to give cravings, and therefore how you might avoid those situations. For the "triggers" that cannot be avoided, you can learn to deal with them effectively.
Six recognized methods for dealing with cravings when they occur are distraction, imagery, rational responses to automatic thoughts, activity, relaxation, and coping flashcards. Distraction is the goal of these methods is to move a persons attention away from negative internal thoughts or uncomfortable feelings, and focus on something else. You can stop a craving by using imagery and refocusing on a relaxing location of your choice, or a peaceful spot. Whenever you feel a craving, ask yourself what thoughts are going through your head at that moment, which is rational responses to automatic thoughts. You will have to try new activities and schedule them into your daily schedule, which will take the place of when you would drink / use drugs. Relaxation techniques can be life savors, which could take a while to learn but if you keep at it, hopefully the feelings of anxiety, anger, frustration, and stress will be mastered. Coping flashcards can help if you get a craving, instead writing instructions on a small index card can be very helpful.
Source: Hunt, Tobin. Coping With Cravings. Bright Eye Counseling. 2011. Retrieved from http://www.brighteyecounselling.co.uk/alcohol-drugs/coping-with-drugs-alcohol-cravings/
No comments:
Post a Comment