Coping mechanisms are habits you can learn over time. These coping mechanisms are meant to help someone manage particular situations or stress levels. As an addict, you were familiar with using drugs as a way to deal with the stresses happening in your life.
Now that you’re out of treatment, you may be wondering about different healthy coping mechanisms to get you through any difficult situations you may face.
“Healthy coping mechanisms are a great way to channel your anxieties and stress, as opposed to tapping into your cravings to deal,” says Dr. Negrini.
Here are a few recommended coping mechanisms to use:
- Exercise: Exercise releases endorphins and helps to reduce tension, stabilize moods, and improve self-esteem and sleep habits. Staying physically active can boost both emotional and physical health and manage stress, which helps control cravings and prevent relapse.
- Yoga and Meditation: Yoga and meditation can be useful as coping mechanisms. Learning how the mind, body, and spirit are connected through breathing exercises and meditative techniques can form healthy ways to manage stress and tension.
- Spirituality: Finding faith and a connection to a higher power can provide an inner strength and strong foundation for managing difficulties as well as for self-introspection.
- Positive Reframing: Thinking of conflicts in a positive way can change your perspective for the better. Even in a tough situation, you’ll be able to come away from it with lessons learned and a fresh perspective.
- Problem-solving: Identifying a problem as it arises can help you learn how to handle it and not be overwhelmed by the issue.
- Communication and Support: Talk it out, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Healthy communication can be incredibly helpful to release stress and powerful for your recovery. Create a support group of peers, therapists, family members, friends, and mentors to lean on and talk to regularly.
These are just some of a few techniques you can use to alleviate stresses. With OARS by your side, you’ll have providers work with you find different ways to handle the stress you go through and to find the right resources that meet your exact needs.