Successful recovery from an addiction is more likely for those who seek counseling or professional treatment, join support groups or have a strong support system of family and friends, according to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Many simple lifestyle modifications and mindset techniques also may assist individuals in the recovery process.
Avoid Triggers
Many alcoholics or drug addicts have certain places, situations or people that increase their desire to engage in their addictive behavior. Although it may be impossible to completely avoid these triggers, recovering addicts should do so whenever possible to make the recovery process easier.
Replace the Addiction
An addiction typically requires a great deal of time and energy. When people stop their addiction, they often find themselves in need of something to fill that void. Recovering addicts should find an activity or hobby that not only interests them, but is personally meaningful and positive, suggests HelpGuide.org. This may include volunteering, taking a class or joining a church or club. Engaging in this activity may weaken the temptation to engage in the addiction.
Relaxation Exercises
Relaxation exercises can promote a sense of well-being and help people avoid stress. Since many recovery addicts turn to their addiction during periods of stress, practicing these relaxation exercises regularly can help with the recovery process. People should explore a variety of deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, visualization activities or progressive muscle relaxation to find the relaxation exercise that they enjoy the most.
One Day at a Time
People who focus on the fact that they will never be able to engage in their addictive behavior again may find recovery overwhelming. Individuals should focus on making it through the present day, or even the present hour, to make recovery more manageable and less intimidating.
Keep Trying
Beating an addiction is difficult, and many recovering addicts experience relapses. If this happens, it is important to take the time to evaluate what went wrong and use that knowledge to take corrective actions to try to prevent a future relapse from occurring. Recovering addicts should not see this as a failure, but as a learning opportunity, suggests the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. The most important thing is to remain vigilant about recovering from the addiction and never to give up on the goal of living an addiction-free life.
