Common Triggers for Recovering Addicts
One of the most difficult things for people in sobriety is the potential for relapse. Relapse is a very real and common event for those recovering from drugs and alcohol. Generally, a trigger is at the root of the relapse. Triggers may be different for everyone. Some of the most common triggers for recovering addicts involve emotions while others are physical.
Emotional Triggers
When you are in recovery, mental, physical and emotional health is crucial to your well-being. Stress, anger or loneliness are common emotional triggers that could cause relapse. Many people seeking treatment for addiction have used drugs or alcohol to cope with their emotions. They have used a substance to deal with feelings of sadness, frustration, guilt or any number of issues. Through therapy, counseling and treatment, those in recovery learn to cope with emotions and deal with feelings in a healthy way.
Physical Triggers
Outside of emotional triggers, physical triggers may also be a culprit in relapse. For instance, certain places may be unhealthy for recovering alcoholics. A bar that they use to frequent or even people that they use to drink with may need to be avoided during recovery, especially at the beginning. As a person in recovery learns to overcome triggers, they may be able to be around alcohol or trigger-inducing situations without issue.
The most important thing for anyone in recovery to remember is that relapse can happen. You have not failed in your quest for sobriety if you relapse. Recommitting yourself to treatment is the best way to stay on track. When first starting treatment, make a relapse prevention plan to help you avoid common triggers. Make sure to discuss your triggers with counselors, sponsors or therapists and always be honest with yourself.