Stress is a major cause of relapse. If an addict wants to fully recovery, they should make sure they manage their stress levels. So how can an addict manage stress in order to ensure they have an effective addiction recovery process?

Making healthy lifestyle choices

Their lifestyle is the first thing they should change. EES (exercise, eat and sleep) process is the most effective in this case. An addict will need to ensure they do some form of daily exercise, eat a balanced diet and get enough sleep. When you take care of the body physically, you will be better equipped to handle stress because you will feel better emotionally. Taking a brisk walk every day, avoiding junk foods and getting enough sleep (at least 8 hours) should suffice.

Stress management techniques

An addict should endeavor to learn and practice stress management techniques. People who are undergoing recovery from any addiction should strive to live a stress free life. Some of the techniques they should try to engage in include:

• Massage
• Practicing forgiveness
• Engaging in hobbies
• Socializing with family and friends
• Expressing feelings
• Time management
• Yoga
• Deep breathing exercises
• Positive affirmations
• Meditation

Avoid stressors as much as possible

As a human being, an addict is bound to have stress at one point or another. Being a natural part of being alive, it has its merits and demerits. Scientist have found that good stress is crucial as it ensures you are motivated to get things done. This being the case, you will need to ensure you reduce negative stress. This applies to everyone including addicts.

If you are recovering from addiction, you should start a stress journal. It should list all the things that stress you in your daily life. Highlight the ones that cause you the highest amount of stress and learn how to recognize the events and choices that cause them- find out how you can minimize these kinds of stressors. For example, if your partner is the cause of your stress, talk to them and tell them how you feel. Talking to them may help them adjust their ways which in turn reduces your stress.  Stress management is a very integral part of addiction recovery and should be taken seriously. Contact us to learn more.