Mastering Addiction Triggers: Insights from Dr. Mark Leeds
Avoiding relapse is critical to success in long-term recovery, and the key is avoiding triggers in recovery.
What’s the secret to staying on the path of recovery? Dr. Mark Leeds, an osteopathic physician with years of experience in addiction treatment, dives into this critical question by focusing on addiction triggers. In this episode, he unpacks the concept of triggers—those pesky internal and external cues that can lead to cravings and relapse.
External triggers might be as simple as passing by a bar or seeing an old drinking buddy, while internal triggers often involve emotional states like stress or loneliness. Dr. Leeds emphasizes the importance of identifying these triggers to dodge the pitfalls they present. He shares practical strategies, like avoiding places linked to past substance use and employing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to tackle internal triggers head-on.
The episode also highlights the role of family therapy in making loved ones aware of these triggers, fostering a supportive environment for recovery. If a craving does strike, Dr. Leeds suggests reaching out to a trusted friend or therapist rather than acting on the impulse. This episode is a treasure trove of advice for anyone navigating the tricky waters of addiction recovery, offering actionable tips to manage triggers and stay on course.