Identifying Triggers and Developing Healthy Coping Skills

A Blog by: Michael Romano CARC/CRPA-P 3/27

Identifying and managing triggers for substance use is critical for anyone in recovery to maintain a safe and healthy sober lifestyle. Triggers are the factors that can cause individuals to use drugs or alcohol. They can be environmental, social, emotional, or physical. Managing triggers is essential for anyone in recovery because the risk of relapse is always present. In this article, we will explore the different types of triggers, patterns of addiction, and healthy coping strategies to manage them. The more aware we are of these triggers, the better off we will be if we develop healthy coping skills.

There are many different types of triggers. Let's go over some of the Main "Types of Triggers":

Emotional Triggers-

Emotional triggers are internal factors that can cause individuals to use drugs or alcohol. They include feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and stress. Emotional triggers are the most potent and can be the most challenging to manage. Many individuals use drugs or alcohol to cope with these emotions, which can lead to addiction.

Environmental Triggers-

Environmental triggers are external factors that can cause individuals to use drugs or alcohol. These triggers can include being in a particular place, such as a bar or a friend's house where drugs are present. Environmental triggers can also include events such as parties or social gatherings where drugs or alcohol are present.

Social Triggers-

Social triggers are related to social situations and relationships. Examples of social triggers include peer pressure or a desire to fit in with a group. Social triggers can also include relationships with friends or family members who use drugs or alcohol.

Physical Triggers-

Physical triggers are related to physical sensations such as pain or discomfort. For example, an individual may use pain medication to cope with chronic pain. Physical triggers can also include withdrawal symptoms from drug or alcohol use.

If we understandthe different "Patterns of Addiction" we can better understand what coping strategies may work the best for us:

Understanding patterns of addiction can help individuals develop healthy coping strategies to manage triggers. The following are some common patterns of addiction:

Addiction to Escape Reality-

This pattern is common among individuals who use drugs or alcohol to cope with stress or anxiety. The individual may feel overwhelmed by their problems and turn to substances to escape. Individuals who use substances to escape reality may experience cravings or urges when they encounter situations that remind them of their problems.

Addiction to Cope with Physical Pain-

This pattern is common among individuals who use drugs or alcohol to cope with physical pain. The individual may have a chronic pain condition and use medication to manage their pain. Individuals who use substances to cope with physical pain may experience cravings or urges when they experience pain.

Addiction Due to Social Pressure-

This pattern is common among individuals who use drugs or alcohol to fit in with a group. The individual may feel pressure to use substances to fit in or feel accepted. Individuals who use substances due to social pressure may experience cravings or urges when they encounter situations where drugs or alcohol are present.

I've gone ahead and put together some healthy coping strategies that anyone can use to manage triggers:

Develop a Support System-

Developing a support system that includes family, friends, sober coach, sponsor, and support groups is essential to manage triggers. Support systems can provide individuals with a sense of accountability and motivation to stay sober. Support systems can also provide individuals with emotional support when they are struggling with triggers.

Avoid Triggers-

Avoiding triggers is one of the most effective ways to prevent relapse, but it can be a hard thing to do, especiallyin early recovery. Avoiding triggers can include avoiding certain people, places, or situations that trigger substance use. Individuals in recovery should be aware of their triggers and plan accordingly to avoid them.

Practice Mindfulness-

Mindfulness/meditation is a practice that can help individuals stay present and focused on the present moment. Mindfulness practices can help individuals cope with stress and anxiety without turning to substances. Mindfulness/meditation can also help individuals develop a greater sense of self-awareness, which can be helpful when managing triggers.

Find Alternative Activities-

Finding alternative activities to substance use can be helpful in managing triggers. Engaging in activities such as exercise, hobbies, or socializing with sober friends can provide individuals with healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety. Alternative activities can also provide individuals with a sense of purpose and fulfillment, which can be helpful in maintaining sobriety.

Practice Self-Care-

Practicing self-care is essential in managing triggers. Self-care can include activities such as getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and taking time to relax and unwind. Practicing self-care can help individuals manage stress and anxiety, which can be major triggers for substance use.

Seek Professional Help-

Seeking professional help from a therapist, counselor or sober coach can be beneficial in managing triggers. Therapists, coaches & counselors can help individuals develop healthy coping strategies and provide them with support and guidance during the recovery process. Seeking professional help can also help individuals address underlying issues that may be contributing to their substance use.

Identifying and managing triggers for substance use is essential in maintaining sobriety. Triggers can be environmental, social, emotional, or physical. Understanding patterns of addiction can help individuals develop healthy coping strategies to manage triggers. Coping strategies include developing a support system, avoiding triggers, practicing mindfulness, finding alternative activities, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help. By utilizing these strategies, individuals in recovery can successfully manage triggers and maintain sobriety. If you or a Loved-One is battling substance abuse please feel free to access all the free resources on our page as well as schedule a free 1:1 virtual coaching session and start your journey towards a happy, healthy and Sober life today, just tap⬇️

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