5 Healthy Coping Skills for Substance Abuse

Grateful sober man at a support group in los angeles

We all know that substance abuse is one of the most severe problems that the United States faces today. More than 20 million Americans each year struggle with addiction, and only a fraction of them get the help they need.

For those struggling with substance abuse, the road to recovery can be long and difficult. Addiction can be a very challenging experience, and knowing where to turn for help can be difficult when experiencing these challenges.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, it’s important to know that help is available. Here are some resources that can help you get started on the road to recovery:

1. Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous is a 12-step program that has helped millions of people recover from alcoholism. If you’re struggling with alcohol addiction, AA can support and guide your recovery journey.

2. Narcotics Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous is a 12-step program for people struggling with addiction to drugs like painkillers, prescription pills, and other controlled substances. Taking part in NA will enable you to build a support network of other recovering addicts and help you find sobriety.

3. Rehabilitation Centers

A variety of treatment options are available at rehabilitation centers for people struggling with addiction problems. The resources that a rehab center can provide will help you overcome your addiction and help you get back on track to a healthy lifestyle.

4. Therapists

If you’re struggling with addiction, a therapist can be a valuable resource. A therapist can help you better understand your addiction and help you deal with the challenges of recovery every step of the way.

5. Support Groups

There are many benefits to joining a support group if you are struggling with addiction and want to connect with others who understand what you’re going through. These groups can provide support and understanding as you work towards recovery.

Coping Skills That Can Help You Recover

When it comes to substance abuse, various coping skills can be employed to help an individual deal with the challenges of recovery and the stress that come along with it. While some of these coping skills may be more effective for certain individuals, it is important to experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you. 

Here are some general tips for developing coping skills for overcoming substance abuse:

Understand your triggers.

One of the first steps in developing coping skills for substance abuse is to be aware of your triggers. What things lead you to abuse substances in the first place? Identifying your triggers can help you avoid them in the future or at least be prepared to deal with them more positively.

Seek out social support

It can be helpful to seek out social support from friends, family, or even professional counselors or therapists. These individuals can provide you with a listening ear, helpful advice, and a shoulder to cry on when needed.

Develop a healthy lifestyle

Eating a balanced diet, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep are all essential to developing a healthy lifestyle. You’ll be better equipped to deal with stress and temptation when your body is healthy.

Find positive outlets for stress

It’s important to find positive outlets for the stress in your life. Some people find that journaling, painting, or listening to music helps them to cope with difficult emotions.

Avoid tempting situations

If you know that being around certain people or places will trigger your substance abuse, it’s best to avoid those situations altogether. This may mean distancing yourself from certain friends or social activities for a while, or maybe even permanently if they’re a risk to your recovery.

Be patient with yourself

Recovery from substance abuse is a process that takes time. Keeping a positive attitude is essential to achieving success, but do not expect your results to appear overnight. If you slip up, don’t beat yourself up – pick yourself up and start again.

Getting Help

Our team aims to support patients and families during recovery and rehabilitation. If you or a loved one struggles with addiction, don’t hesitate to contact Life Adjustment Team for help today!

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