Cravings are a powerful part of the recovery process. Cravings have a lot to do with why people continue to use drugs and ruin their lives. With addiction, the brain links drug use to high rewards, hence the reason why you’re driven to continue using these substances regardless of the consequences.

However, once you complete drug rehab, you must learn how to manage your cravings and stay on track with your recovery goals. Below are five effective strategies for dealing with drug cravings in recovery. 

1. Find a Distraction 

When you feel the urge to use drugs or alcohol, find a distraction immediately. Sitting and thinking about the craving can cause you to fantasize about drugs or alcohol. 

What types of distractions are best? You can do anything that passes the time. Grab a cup of coffee, go for a walk, call your friend, etc. These types of simple distractions will help get your mind off drugs and onto other things. 

2. Go Outside – and Do Something Active 

Getting outdoors is another great distraction – and it’s good for the soul, too. Sunlight is a natural medicine essential for human health. Spending even a few minutes outside promotes good mental health, plus lower blood pressure and cortisol levels. 

Ideally, you should have some fun activities to do when you’re outdoors. Our outpatient rehab in Agoura Hills is close to the beach so clients can go swimming, surfing or walk on the sand in their free time. Moving your body helps you forget about your craving and find pleasure in other activities.  

3. Practice Mindfulness 

Mindfulness is a helpful tool that will come in handy throughout your recovery. Mindful thinking helps you focus on the present rather than ruminating on the past or worrying about the future. Spend a few minutes thinking about your thoughts, feelings and attitudes. This will give you some perspective into why you’re experiencing cravings, as well as ways to achieve balance in your life. 

4. Ride the Wave 

Sometimes, people in recovery have no choice but to ‘ride the wave.’ Surely, it’s not what you want to hear, but you can become very good at it with practice. 

‘Urge surfing’ is a mental technique that observes and experiences the urge without engaging in it. It can be compared to riding a wave in the ocean. Even though waves are strong and powerful, they pass quickly. With urge surfing, you can fully recognize and feel your feelings without them controlling you. 

5. Connect with Your Sponsor 

This is what sponsors are here for – to support people new to recovery. Your sponsor has been through these tough times and can offer you guidance and support – and all without judgment. There are no set times that you’re required to call your sponsor, so use this resource whenever you feel the need. 

If you are experiencing strong cravings and feel that you need more support than what you’re receiving at home (or you have a loved one going through this), contact Awakenings Treatment Center. Cravings can be incredibly powerful and almost impossible to ignore, but help is available.