You already know that addiction is a disease that can be treated. And you also know that overcoming addiction can be extremely difficult. Relapses may happen, and withdrawal symptoms are often painful and scary.
And if you try to fight addiction on your own but can’t make any progress, it’s normal to feel discouraged. Please don’t give up. Remember that recovery is challenging, not impossible, and you don’t have to face these challenges alone.
If you’re determined to overcome your addiction to drugs or alcohol, these seven tips for battling addiction will help you get started on the right foot.
Don’t simply quit “cold turkey”
Deciding whether you want to overcome your addiction is the first step on your recovery journey. If you don’t want things to change, they won’t.
But as determined as you might be to stop using drugs or alcohol, it’s best not to try to quit “cold turkey.” Trying to do so could result in severe withdrawal symptoms. Depending on the substance you’re addicted to, it could be dangerous to stop suddenly. It’s best to recover gradually in an addiction treatment centre.
Identify and avoid your triggers
When hanging out with a friend, do you always go out and get more than a few drinks? It might be best to stay away from them, at least for the time it takes to recover from your addiction.
Consider all the people, the places, the items, and even the thoughts that always trigger cravings for the substance you’re addicted to. Then, take action to eliminate or avoid those triggers. This could mean getting rid of all addictive substances in your home and avoiding certain places or people.
Spend time with supportive people
Yes, avoiding some of your loved ones can be hard. You should, of course, explain to them your intention to battle addiction and become sober. If they don’t understand or support your efforts, it might be best to break up with them.
Instead, spend time with friends and family who support and encourage you. You can also join a support group in your area.
Seek the help of professionals
Out of all our tips for battling addiction, this might be one of the most helpful: seek healthcare providers’ help. Being surrounded by supportive friends is important, but more is needed.
Talk to your doctor and ask for advice on how to fight your addiction and cope with withdrawal symptoms. Research addiction treatment centres and consider attending one. Seeking professionals is the best way to find a suitable treatment for your addiction.
Add new activities to your routine
It’s always helpful to replace harmful habits with healthy ones. Adding engaging activities to your routine should help keep your mind off your addiction and cravings, which is essential when battling addiction.
Try exercising, yoga, or meditating. You could also reconnect with your old hobbies or try a new activity you’ve always wanted to try. You could learn to play an instrument, for example, or try watercolour or oil painting. Challenge yourself to try something fun.
Improve your daily diet
They say you are what you eat, and it’s true. Your body uses nutrients to create new cells. What you eat also influences your brain functions, emotions, and ability to regulate anxiety and handle stress.
Since recovery is challenging, improving your daily diet should help you think more clearly and manage your emotions more effectively. Of course, it’s also better for your overall health. So, add plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your plate each day.
Find healthy ways to cope with cravings
When you’re battling addiction, cravings can throw you off course and cause a relapse. This is why finding healthy ways to deal with them is so important. First, you need to accept cravings as a normal part of recovery. They will happen, but they will not last, and it’s up to you to resist them and keep your mind off them.
Exercise, meditation, and deep breathing can help. You could also call a friend to talk to them or try fun activities to keep you busy and feel good. Above all, remember to avoid people, situations, and thoughts that trigger cravings.