Key Takeaways
- Opioid Cravings Are Normal: During addiction recovery, cravings for opioids are common but can be managed.
- Healthy Coping Strategies Can Help: Using positive techniques helps reduce cravings and prevents relapse.
- Virtue Recovery Houston Offers Support: Our expert opioid addiction treatment program can guide you in managing cravings and maintaining sobriety.
Introduction
Cravings are a common part of the process of opioid withdrawal. Opioid cravings can make it hard to recover, but they do not have to result in relapse, as people may think. It is important to understand that there are healthy ways of dealing with the cravings and thus maintaining the recovery process. In this article, we will discuss 10 tips on how to deal with opioid cravings and stay clean.
1. Practice Deep Breathing
If you get a craving, just pause for a while and take a few deep breaths. This is a very basic method that can help you relax your mind and body. Breathe in and out through your nose, inhale for a few seconds, and exhale through your mouth. Do this slowly. Taking deep breaths relieves anxiety and provides time to think before responding to the opioid craving.
2. Distract Yourself
One of the best ways to handle opioid cravings is to distract yourself with a different activity. When your mind is busy, the cravings tend to fade. Try doing something you enjoy, like reading a book, watching a favorite movie, or exercising. Even small tasks like cleaning or organizing can help take your mind off the urge to take opioids.
3. Talk to Someone
If you feel like you are getting hungry, do not wait to call someone for help. Reach out to a friend, a family member, or a sponsor who knows your recovery process. Sharing your emotions can make you feel less isolated and bring back the purpose of why you decided to become sober. It is very effective to have someone to listen and encourage one when he or she is having a craving.
4. Drink Water
The feeling that one gets can be mistaken for hunger or even thirst. Ensure you are taking enough water in a day so you do not feel thirsty. When you like having a snack, take a glass of water or herbal tea instead. Staying hydrated is another way of minimizing the urge to take opioids.
5. Take a Walk
Exercise is a good way to relieve stress and distract the mind from food temptations. If you feel the urge to use drugs, walk, or do light exercise. It is also a way of exercising and is known to positively impact your mood since it helps release endorphins in your brain. This is true because fresh air and movement can help one deal with cravings.
6. Use Positive Affirmations
The desire to take opioids may make you question your capacity to remain sober. To counter this, affirm yourself with positive words that will help you to remember that you are strong and capable. Phases such as “I am in control of my choices” or “I can handle this craving” can help you build up your confidence and keep you on the right track to recovery.
7. Avoid Triggers
Particular places, people, or situations can trigger drug cravings. Avoiding these triggers is a key part of addiction recovery. If certain friends or social settings make you want to partake in drugs, it’s okay to take a step back from those situations. Protecting your sobriety means making smart choices about where you go and who you spend time with.
8. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is being aware of what is happening in the present time. When the urge to eat comes, think about it and what you are experiencing. Recognize the desire, but do not give in to it. It assists you in being able to manage your emotions and make rational choices instead of giving in to urges.
9. Remind Yourself of Your Goals
If you feel a craving is overwhelming, tell yourself why you decided to quit taking drugs in the first place. Consider your recovery objectives and the changes that you have embraced once you choose to quit opioids. Self-reminding is a good way of ensuring you do not give in to the temptation of taking opioids. You have a long way to go and must remain focused on your goals to succeed.
10. Have a Sober Buddy
Having a sober buddy—someone also in recovery or committed to a sober lifestyle—can be incredibly helpful. This person can be there for you when cravings hit, offering support and keeping you accountable. Whether it’s a friend, sponsor, or someone from a support group, having a sober buddy helps you stay motivated and reminds you that you’re not alone in your recovery journey.
Conclusion
Cravings are a normal part of recovering from opioid use disorder, but they don’t have to lead to relapse. By practicing these 10 healthy coping mechanisms, you can manage cravings and focus on your recovery. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone—support from loved ones and professional help can make all the difference.
If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid cravings or needs help with recovery, call Virtue Recovery Chandler at 725-777-5685. Our expert team provides personalized opioid addiction treatment to help you manage cravings and stay on the path to long-term sobriety.
FAQs
What causes opioids cravings during recovery?
Physical, emotional, or environmental triggers cause cravings. During addiction recovery, your body and mind are adjusting to life without opioids, so cravings are common.
How can I handle opioid cravings without relapsing?
You can handle cravings by practicing deep breathing, distracting yourself, talking to someone, or using positive affirmations. Having a plan in place helps you stay in control.
What are some activities I can do to distract myself from cravings?
You can try reading, exercising, walking, watching a movie, or cleaning. Anything that keeps your mind busy can help distract you from cravings.
Why is a support system important in recovery?
A support system is crucial because it provides encouragement, accountability, and understanding. Whether it’s friends, family, or a sponsor, a support system helps you stay strong during tough moments.
How does Virtue Recovery Chandler help with opioid cravings?
Virtue Recovery Chandler offers professional opioid addiction treatment, including personalized care plans, therapy, and support to help you manage cravings and stay sober.
