How Do I Handle Triggers?

Triggers are internal or external stimuli that may cause you to want to relapse and use drugs or alcohol again.

Addiction triggers are an inevitable part of the recovery journey. Although there are many ways to handle triggers, healthy coping skills are crucial.

Understanding what your triggers are and creating methods for managing them can help you achieve long-term recovery and prevent relapse.

Examples of Triggers in Addiction Recovery

There are both internal and external triggers.

Internal triggers may include:

• boredom
• anxiety
• depression
• anger
• nervousness
• loneliness
• positive or negative emotions
• stress

Internal triggers often involve complex emotions that may lead someone to abuse substances.

External triggers may include:

• people
• places
• events
• celebrations
• socializing

Studies have shown that a person learns to associate stimuli present while using a substance, including people, places, and even moods, with a substance’s rewarding effects.

As a result, people and places that the person associates with substance use are often some of the most challenging triggers.

Recognizing Your Triggers

Learning to recognize your triggers can mean the difference between abstaining and using drugs or alcohol.

Evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you to identify your triggers, including the thought and behavior patterns that may lead to substance use.

Using Coping Mechanisms

There are a variety of coping mechanisms that can be used to manage high-risk situations.

Coping mechanisms for avoiding drugs or alcohol may include:

• avoiding situations, activities, or people you associate with substance use
• sports activities
• household activities
• interacting with family and friends
• keeping busy during the day
• connecting with a therapist
• join a support group

Studies consistently show that coping skills are crucial in the relapse-recovery process.

Asking For Additional Help

If you believe you or a loved one needs additional help, contact a treatment center or substance abuse counselor.

A substance abuse counselor can educate you on available treatment programs, treatment length, therapies involved in treatment, support groups, and other resources.

Learn How Bedrock Recovery Center Can Help You

If you or a loved one are looking for help managing your triggers, contact Bedrock Recovery Center to learn more information about available treatment options.