Every once in a while, a familiar feeling surfaces: a craving for the drug or drink that you used to turn to. Maybe some triggers bring it to mind, too. They might be people, places and things, like people you used to use drugs with, bars or old supplies.

These triggers can be distracting and upsetting, but they're common experiences in recovery. You may be able to handle them more easily with healthier coping skills. You can turn to the professionals at ReKlame Health for personalized coping techniques and support.

You can try these skills to work through cravings and triggers

Going through difficult moments doesn't have to throw your recovery off track. You can try to manage these by:

• Exploring cognitive behavioral therapy

You may be able to learn a variety of coping skills in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Some evidence suggests that CBT may be more effective than individual or group counseling for substance use disorder when treating stimulant use.

• Practicing mindfulness techniques

A mindfulness-based relapse prevention program showed promising results. However, you may not need to participate in a specialized program to learn mindfulness techniques. The Mayo Clinic has outlined an introduction to mindfulness and several exercises here.

• Seeking social support

By connecting with people going through similar things, you can share coping strategies with each other. You can discuss what brings up cravings and triggers, and what you do to handle these experiences in a healthier way. You can also seek support from the people close to you, whether they have experience with addiction or not; they may be happy to talk things through with you.

• Connecting with your treatment provider

In a difficult moment, it's beneficial to have a professional be there for you. At ReKlame, we offer flexible scheduling and availability that you may not find with a treatment provider that only operates in person. We aim to keep common barriers to access from affecting your treatment.

• Supporting your physical and mental health

Some vulnerabilities are outlined in the acronym HALT: hunger, anger, loneliness and tiredness. The expanded "HALT BS" includes boredom and sadness. Make sure that you are eating well, resting and connecting with others. Work through anger or sadness by talking with others, journaling or participating in treatment. Manage boredom by finding healthier uses of time and attention, like a hobby or volunteer work.

• Building a routine that provides stability

A routine that supports a healthier lifestyle can help you stay on track. It can also help you move toward goals that might make recovery feel worthwhile in the moment, like building a better relationship with your family or improving your health. If you work with a professional, they can help you create a routine for a better lifestyle.

• Exploring more resources

Connecting with a professional can give you access to resource recommendations. These might include support groups, local counseling, online resources, book recommendations and more. You can use these to make a comprehensive collection of tools for managing triggers and stress.

How can a professional help you avoid returning to using alcohol or drugs?

Researchers have identified several techniques, including treatment modalities like CBT and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). There is also a process for physicians providing comprehensive support:

• Identify a person who may be in recovery
• Create a supportive relationship with them
• Provide regular follow-up appointments
• Help them gain support from their family
• Connect them with 12-step support groups
• Help them understand cravings and triggers
• Support healthier changes to their lifestyle
• Manage mental health conditions like depression or anxiety
• Consider adding psychiatric medication to their care
• Collaborate across specialities

A psychiatric nurse practitioner and care navigator from ReKlame can also take a holistic approach to treatment. We see you as a whole person, not only a person with substance use disorder, and aim to support your overall health.

Our team can provide confidential, virtual treatment so that you don't have to leave home for care. We accept several types of insurance, Medicaid, Medicare and self-pay. Additionally, at your provider's discretion, we can help you with disability, school accommodation, work accommodation or FMLA forms.

All care is conducted through secure online platforms, like Spruce, which we use for text-based communication.

Reach out to ReKlame for help in recovery

Together, we can find ways to help you deal with cravings, triggers and other difficult moments in recovery. Give our care team a call today for more information, check your eligibility for free online or book an initial appointment online.