Dealing with an Opioid Addiction? Here are Some Recovery Tips to Help

Dealing with an opioid use disorder is no easy feat. With opioid abuse at historic highs, you are not alone on this road. The promising news is that there are things that you can do to help you to avoid triggers and manage your urges to use. Regardless of if you are the one struggling with the addiction or you need to provide support to a loved one, here are six tips to keep in mind when coping with this disorder.
 

Focus on Why You Are in Recovery

It can be easy to lose focus of the reasons that you are in recovery. Writing down what you are fighting for may be instrumental in providing you with the motivation that you need to stick with your recovery plan. It may be that you are seeking treatment for the disorder because the use has negatively affected important relationships. Or maybe it has impacted your career?

Whatever the reason that motivates you to beat this addiction, keep it in the forefront of your mind. These reasons are likely the most powerful motivator that you have to stay with the treatment protocol. If you find yourself losing sight of these reasons, write them down and put them in a place where you will see them regularly.
 

Remember Cravings Will End

When you first begin your treatment program, you may think that you will never be able to push past a craving. However, it is important to remember that any craving will pass. While it may take hours, you do not have to give in simply because you think that it is the only way to end the strong desire to use.

Being intentional about distracting yourself will help you to push past that wall. Take a walk, get lost in a book, or head to the mall. Choose anything that will distract your mind.
 

Talk to Someone

Some people also find it helpful to simply dive into the issue and talk to someone about the craving. Rather than trying to push it out of your mind through the use of a distraction, you may see more success if you address the problem directly by talking to a trusted friend or family member. Do not feel ashamed to reach out and verbalize that you feel like using. Building a solid support system is vital when navigating this difficult road. Recovery support groups can be an invaluable tool for this part of the recovery process.
 

Look Into Counseling

There is also no shame in needing counseling to help you to beat the addiction. A professional counseling service can assist you in managing your cravings and avoiding triggers. Counseling comes in many forms, ranging from individual to group therapy. You can also find counseling online if that is more convenient for your needs. The goal is finding a counselor that you connect with. While it may be awkward and uncomfortable at first, most people find great value in leaning on the help of a trained professional to get them through this challenging time.
 

Consider Medication

Another important component of an opioid abuse treatment program is the use of medication. Your doctor can recommend different options to you, depending on where you are in your treatment program. Some medications are used to mitigate the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Other medications are designed to block the euphoric feeling that many people experience after taking opioids so that the drug is less attractive. Your doctor will be able to prescribe the best combination and dosage of medications for your needs.
 

Be Mindful

In addition to the use of medication and counseling, it is a good idea to practice mindful meditation. This practice will help you to remain in the present rather than being stuck on your mistakes in the past. Being present will also alleviate the worries that come when you get anxious about the future. Although it can take some practice, mindful meditation may become an important component of your treatment program if you give it time.

Learning how you can best navigate this road to recovery will help you to beat the addiction. It will likely take a combination of steps to provide the help that you need.