Riding the Waves: Managing Triggers and Cravings in Recovery
Cravings have and take on a life of their own. Other times, cravings make us feel guilty or bring doubt about if we're going to make it soon. The craving convinces us that we'll always be stuck in addiction, so we might as well use now.
Ever wondered why some days feel like an endless battle against cravings? In this episode of 'A2D - From Addict to Disciple', David Hain, a seasoned addiction recovery expert, dives into the heart of what triggers those relentless urges. He breaks down triggers into three main types: the sneaky ones that catch you off guard, the emotional ones tied to feelings like anxiety or loneliness, and those pesky memories from the past that just won't let go.
David doesn't just stop at identifying these triggers; he offers practical tools to tackle them head-on. You'll learn about starting a trigger journal, a simple yet effective way to keep track of what sets you off. And then there's the WALK approach, a method designed to help you process cravings without feeling overwhelmed. But the real gem of this episode is the concept of 'surfing the urge'.
Instead of fighting against cravings, David encourages you to ride them out like a surfer riding a wave. It's about acknowledging the urge and finding balance rather than letting it crash over you. This episode is packed with actionable advice and insights, making it a must-listen for anyone on the journey to recovery. Whether you're new to this path or have been walking it for a while, David's empathetic guidance and practical tips can make a world of difference.