What can I do when I feel triggered?
Addiction can be a difficult and overwhelming condition, but with the right support and strategies, it is possible to overcome triggers and maintain recovery. Triggers can be anything that causes a craving for drugs or alcohol, or leads to a relapse. Understanding your triggers and learning how to manage them is a key part of the recovery process.
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Identify the trigger
The first step in overcoming triggers is to identify them. This can include external triggers such as stress, social situations, or specific people, and internal triggers such as emotions, memories, or physical sensations. Keeping a journal or using an addiction recovery app can help you track your triggers and become more aware of what triggers your cravings.
Develop a plan
Once you have identified your triggers, it is important to develop a plan for managing them. This can include avoiding or minimizing exposure to triggers, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and seeking support from friends, family, or a professional therapist.
Substitute the negative with the positive
One of the most effective strategies for managing triggers is to replace negative behaviors with positive ones. This could include exercising, meditating, or engaging in activities that bring you joy and help you to relax. Building a strong support system is also critical, as friends and family can provide encouragement and accountability, and help you through difficult times.
Build healthy habits
Another important aspect of overcoming triggers is developing resilience and learning to manage stress. This may involve learning stress-management techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation. Additionally, building healthy habits, such as getting enough sleep, eating a nutritious diet, and avoiding drugs and alcohol, can help to reduce stress and prevent relapses.
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Get the help you need
In conclusion, overcoming triggers and maintaining recovery from addiction takes time, effort, and patience. But with the right support and strategies, you can learn to manage your triggers and live a fulfilling and sober life. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, seek help from a professional addiction treatment center. With the right help and support, it is possible to overcome triggers and achieve lasting recovery.
Learn MoreParadigm Shift
Addiction has a physical as well as a mental component. The physical part is resolved by detoxing to remove the chemicals from my body. The more daunting task is to change my thinking and how I respond to life. My healthy response to life is the key to overcoming the obsession to use alcohol or drugs. Learning those responses has been and will continue to be something I work on and deal with.
If you are struggling to cope, you don’t have to be alone.
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Living with death as a companion
There was a point in my life where my perspective revolved around the thought of death because living was excruciatingly difficult and uncomfortable. The road to my recovery was dark and at times extremely depressing. Death has never been a big fear of mine, it had to be better than living in my addiction with all the fears of life.
Learning, falling, crash and burn
Most of the time those lessons were uncomfortable, but today those are some of my fondest memories because I overcame situations that used to baffle me. The problem was learning to live again. I did not understand those people who woke up everyday and were happy to be alive. The first time I felt peace I couldn’t even name it. My boyfriend had to explain that feeling.
A living perspective
The solution to my addiction, I found out, had nothing to do with my using or not using meth and other drugs. My experience in my recovery and the experiences of others in recovery show me that life is worth experiencing and living is preferable to death.That shift of perspective showed me a path to a solution rather than wallowing in the problem, my bruised ego.
Connected-ness
I firmly believe that anyone in the thrall of addiction can NEVER make a connection with anyone, anything or even themselves. The sense of being “a part of” and belonging has helped me to realize where I fit in to the big scheme. Because of this being connected to those around me and being a part of something bigger than me, I can not only face my fears but feel peace at times.
Tools of the trade
One of the milestones of my recovery was finding Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA), and the recovery that they offered to me. Coming from a smaller city that did not have CMA meetings, I’ve come to realize the absolute benefit that this group brings to my program, when 2 years ago, I didn’t even realize this group existed.
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After thoughts
Mental health and addiction go hand in hand. Many of us who struggle with drugs and/or alcohol also experience overwhelming moments of sadness and anxiety. When you’ve burned your life to the ground, it can feel like a burden to be alive. There is hope, because there is a solution. Seek out mental health professionals and also attend to your sobriety. Just don’t give up, because on the other side of negative emotions is life of peace. You are worth it!
Learn More4 ways to protect myself from relapse?
Relapse prevention techniques are coping skills that help to fight cravings, combat euphoric recall, and curb the desire to drink or use drugs. Recovery is a process and, at times, a battle to find a new way to live. Many sober people have overcome slips or relapses on the road to recovery. The best thing to do is to pick yourself up and begin again. Healthy relapse prevention techniques are among the most important tools you can use. Below are a few…
It’s ok to fail, as long as you get back up. We are here to help you.
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Stay in the middle
Being in the middle of the program means staying involved and keeping in touch with people from your home group. Feeling connected to people in recovery is essential. This is your tribe, and they will understand your struggles and help you navigate moments of uncertainty. It is hard to be vulnerable and admit to people that you are struggling, but knowing your weaknesses will allow you to access your strengths.
Avoiding triggers
Staying away from people, places, things, and situations closely linked to drinking and drugging is imperative. It is easy to fall back into old behaviors, especially near the beginning or the recovery journey. Sober living is a great way to beef up your accountability, and help foster an environment where recovery is the shared goal. Communicating your urges with friends in the program and a sponsor offer invaluable feedback. Often those around us may be able to see danger before we do. If you are in the habit of listening to music and watching tv where drug culture is glorified, it will increase the desire to use.What triggers you now doesn’t have to trigger you forever. Protect yourself and set up an environment grounded in the values of a 12 step program.
Taking Good Care of Physical and Mental Health
This is also known as self care, and includes habits and practices like exercise, eating well, socializing (responsibly), going to therapy, and getting adequate sleep. Many of us forgot to take care of our basic needs, so small acts like taking a bath, brushing our teeth, and making the bed can restore our esteem. Find a hobby that interests you to keep yourself occupied during downtime. Be curious about new activities, events, and experiences. Recovery isn’t dull, so seek out new ways to be involved. Take care of yourself the same way you would take care of someone you cared for. This means prioritizing all the various parts or yourself. There is a part that needs to play, rest, work, learn, heal, and help others. Self care doesn’t always have to cost a lot of money, spending time outdoors is proven to help your mood. Being active has many mental and physical benefits. Nurture all of the various parts of yourself and schedule time to pay attention to them.
Managing Stress
There are times when, despite our best efforts, we can be doing all the right things and life can still throw a curveball. Honestly sharing anxious thoughts at 12 step meetings helps to normalize our feelings. If we bottle up emotions, they can drive us crazy and prompt us to act out with drugs and alcohol. Getting it out and processing how we feel relieves the stress showing up in our lives. Using guided meditation is a great way to be grounded in the present moment and distract yourself from the stresses of day to day life. Reflect on your progress and cultivate gratitude for the inner work you are doing in your life to relieve your stress.
Final Thoughts
For many people in recovery, relapse is a part of their story. Quite often, it takes what it takes to learn the lessons that keep us sober. Being proactive and developing a mental plan to address the 4 relapse prevention methods here, will serve you well in the long term and prepare you well for a healthy and sustainable recovery journey.
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Learn MoreThe 5 Steps for a Healthy Sobriety Journey
Too often people struggling with addiction have no idea how to get started. The process is life long, and requires a constant state of vigilance. WIth a firm desire and a little bit of willingness, the addict can find a new life with boundless possibilities. Here are our suggestions on how to gain and maintain a “Design for Living” for the addict who still suffers.
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1) Check in to a Detox
The first steps towards getting well is to work on the body. Many of us have struggled with trying to get sober because we have an intense fear of withdrawal symptoms. Some drugs can lead to death if stopped suddenly without medical assistance and observation. Depending on the drug, we suggest a level 4 detox facility, with clinical and medical monitoring. Many addicts stop after this step which rarely works. We suggest finding an inpatient program next.
2) Continue to Inpatient Treatment
Most detox facilities are familiar with residential treatment centers in their area (The Haven has a discharge coordinator who can recommend residential programs tailored to the client’s insurance and other needs). Immersion into a sober environment , accompanied by education and counseling, can greatly increase the chances of success in sobriety. Upon release from an inpatient program, we suggest finding an aftercare group that meets a few days per week, or what is known as IOP.
3) Join an IOP group
IOP usually consists of group meetings 3-5 times per week, along with individual counseling sessions with a licensed therapist. IOP can last between 6-8 months depending on the client’s level of care and approval from insurance. It is recommended during this time to attend 12 step meetings for sustained sobriety.
4) Get a Home Group
Finding an AA home group or other 12 step program has shown to greatly increase connectedness and enlarge a person’s sober, social circle. Having people in recovery helps with accountability and engagement. We highly recommend getting a sponsor and working the 12 steps, as this is the “meat” of recovery. One addict/alcoholic transmitting their experience and understanding to the next addict/alcoholic, brings us to our most important step.
5) Work with Others
The best way to learn anything is to teach it. Having a broad understanding of the 12 steps and daily living in recovery can save the life of another addict/alcoholic. Many people who have been sober for many years will say that helping others is the, “bright spot of their lives”. Watching the light turn on in someone’s eyes is a joy not to be missed.
Helping others is who we are. Reach out now if you or someone you know is struggling.
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You can do it!
Each of these steps, in this order has been proven to save lives. We highly recommend sponsoring others and getting involved in service work with your home group. This is a road map for success, and while everyone’s journey is different, these 5 steps for a healthy sobriety journey will keep you pointed in the right direction. If you don’t know where to start, start here.
Learn MoreWhy is asking for help so hard?
My name is David M and I served this country in the Army from September 2002 – April 2013. I thought I had my life together until drugs and alcohol took everything from me. Luckily, this is not where my story ends. Once I got the courage to ask for help, I was able to get my life back. Here is how I did it!
Who knew?
When I joined the Army back in 2002 I never thought I would be checking into my 4th inpatient residential treatment center by 2021. I definitely didn’t know that the VA had treatment facilities for veterans who struggle with addiction and alcoholism. Who knew there are dozens of VA Treatment Facilities all over the nation?
Snowballed
No one wakes up one day and thinks, “I want to be a meth addict and an alcoholic.” Over time I developed bad habits that snowballed into a full blown methamphetamine addiction. This brought me to the darkest days of my life.
Experiencing homelessness
My addiction took everything from me. And I mean everything. Throughout my addiction, I had lost jobs over and over. For the longest time, I would rebound and get another job. I was so tired of having to rebound that I finally gave up and just stopped trying. I soon became homeless and that was a very scary place to be.
Rock bottom
They say that everyone’s rock bottom is different. And I had plenty of rock bottom moments that should have been “The One”. I kept comparing myself to others which kept me out. I was finally sick and tired of being sick and tired, when I was getting evicted from my sixth apartment in a year and a half. I had to be out by Nov 30th and I had no clue on where I was going to go.
Burning bush moment
On Nov 18th, 2020 my niece was born. My mom messaged me saying “You’re an uncle again!” I had completely forgotten my brother and sister-in-law were expecting another child. IT WOKE ME UP!! I really wanted to meet that little lady. I knew I was living the wrong story and I needed to change.
Detox / Inpatient Rehab
I completed St. Christopher’s Addiction and Wellness, a 30 day treatment facility, in Baton Rouge, LA. I knew that wasn’t enough time, so I went to my VA doctor and she referred me to the Bonham Domiciliary. The VA saved my life! In February 2021 I checked into my second inpatient rehab at the Bonham Domiciliary. I didn’t even know that was an option for veterans until I finally asked for help.
Life today
My life is beyond my wildest dreams. I recently celebrated 2 years of sobriety and I couldn’t be happier. I work a rigorous program of recovery through the 12 Steps of CMA. I not only have a place to live, but I own it! All of this is possible because I decided to reach out and ask for a little help.
Asking for help is tough, but we are here for you!
Reach out to us, anytime – 903-609-0544
Learn MoreHow do I cope with loneliness around the Holidays?
It can feel like the pressure is on around the Holidays. For many of us who struggle with addiction, it is especially important to know how to navigate all the intense feelings this time of year can stir up. Below are a few coping skills that give you the tools to stay upbeat and emotionally safe this holiday season.
Tools for coping…
1. Reaching out to people and strengthening bonds.
This is a perfect time to go through your address book and touch base with people you haven’t spoken to in a while. If you don’t know how to start the conversation, just say something simple like, “I was thinking about you and wanted to see how you are doing?” This is a great way to feel more connected.
2. Cultivate feelings of gratitude.
This is a great antidote for feelings of lack that can arise this time of year. It is hard to focus on how much you have and how much you don’t at the same time. Shift your perspective, and spend some time looking at your life and the things around you that you appreciate. Get positive momentum going by noticing what you have to be thankful for.
3. Volunteer for a meaningful cause.
One way to feel less lonely is to spend time working for a cause that you believe in. The best way to get out of our heads and into right action is through service to others. Helping to serve food, working to make sure people have a warm place to sleep, or giving gifts to families in need helps remind us we are here to be of maximum benefits to others.
4. Self Care.
Taking special care of yourself and making sure you are managing your stress and anxiety well is very important. Nothing extravagant required! Take a bath, read a book, listen to some cheerful music is all it takes to unwind and relax.
5. Talking to others about how you feel.
Sharing your thoughts will help you process feelings of loneliness. You will realize that you are not alone and that nothing in the universe is happening in isolation. Loneliness is a feeling many people share around this time of year. Often we think we are the only ones feeling a certain way. Opening up to others closes the gap and helps dissolve feelings of separation.
6. Rethink your expectations.
There is a common saying in Alcoholics Anonymous that expectations are resentments waiting to happen. Social media, movies, advertisements set up an idea of what the perfect holiday season is about. Who can possibly live up to this? When spending time with our family and friends ends up being less than perfect, we can spiral into depression and loneliness. We each need to rethink the expectations society has for the holidays and realize that when things don’t go as planned, it doesn’t mean they are wrong.
7. Routine.
Going to meetings, talking to your sponsor, working with others, and connecting with your Higher Power is a daily practice. When the holidays roll around it can disrupt our schedule. Make sure to keep doing the things that keep you pointed in the right direction. It is important to go to bed around the same time and wake up at the same time you usually do. This keeps your mood well balanced. Remember not to deviate too much from your routine so you don’t lose your footing.
Easy does it
Give yourself a little grace; this is a very difficult time of year and the pressure can be overwhelming.
The holidays are full of triggers, and very often we addicts and alcoholics struggle to handle complex emotions.
If you fall you can always get back up, and that is why The Haven Admissions Team would like you to know we are here for you.
We’ve been exactly where you, and we know how to help you get better.
It’s ok not to feel ok. You aren’t alone and we are here to help!
Call us anytime : 903-609-0544
Learn MoreThe 4 Pillars of Addiction
Overcoming addiction can seem daunting at first, but with the ideal resources in place, it can make the recovery journey much more attainable. After reading the 4 pillars of addiction below, you will find that there is a balance needed between inner mental and physical strength, and a strong sense of community and support around you.
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1) Health
To begin your journey in recovery you first need to get your body back in working condition.
That’s why a good medical detox center ( like The Haven ) is so important for those who fear the withdrawal symptoms associated with alcohol and some drugs.
Let us help make the come down as painless as possible.
2) Home
It’s so important to have a safe place to rest your head and get back on your feet.
Sometimes the place we left to go to treatment is not always the best place to return.
Always keep your safety and security at the front of your mind when deciding on a living situation.
3) Purpose
What do you want to do with your life? Do you want to work with other people?
Would you prefer working with animals? Are you good with numbers?
Think about what you can bring to the world that is uniquely you.
(And figure out how to get PAID doing it!)
4) Community
Who are the people you want to surround myself with?
Who can you call when you’re scared and want to drink or use?
You need at least 5 good sober friends in your phone who you can call in these desperate moments.
And a home group will add to the sense of belonging if you attend regularly.
The Haven TX is a place for all
You now understand the 4 pillars of addiction, but now the true task of implementing these pillars will take effect for you or a loved one.
You do not and should not battle your addiction journey alone.
The Haven TX is a medical stabilization / detox facility, with a talented and compassionate team who would appreciate the opportunity to embark on this journey with you while providing the necessary support along the way.
“I am ready to take the first step”
We are waiting for you: 903-609-0544
Learn More“I’m Too Smart for a Detox Program”
Getting and staying sober has been the biggest hurdle for me in this life so far. I have been at it since 1986, and that is A LOT of in and out of recovery. Six months here, three months there. One excuse after another, but I think it boils down to the unfortunate idea that I thought I was too smart for the simple program of recovery that has saved literally millions of lives. Too smart to get sober. The perilous mindset of countless alcoholics.
My Personal Backstory
I go to high school and interact with hundreds of people followed by college, which allowed me to have a broader understanding of the social variances in the population. I learn that there are many different types of people with varied types of experiences out there. Yet they all seem, in my eyes, to share an underlying cohesiveness. A common viewpoint about what is useful and meaningful in each of their individual lives and collective communities. But I don’t think I have the filter or focus that others have. In fact, I KNOW I don’t have it. My joy comes from shocking others, the way I balk at their connectedness. I am at the fray, the subversive outcast. I search out the differences and shun the similarities. I drink to numb my otherness. This is when I feel the need to fit in.
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Alcohol Made Me Think I Was Invincible – I Was Wrong
I drink more and when I do, I begin to understand the connections all these people have to one another. I can talk without fear of saying the wrong thing. How glorious this is! Albeit a little louder than I intended. Everyone around me is laughing at my jokes, confiding in me with their secrets and ideas. Conviviality is finally mine! And I drink more, and get louder still. And the stories I tell are less my own and more creative in origin. And I see doubt in some eyes. Then I feel the heat of anger in my face. Because I know that for tonight, this is the end. The spell has broken. The window has closed. No more laughs. They are walking away as I speak. Another drink and another. A couple of these people are still near me, though it seems more out of responsibility and fear of what I might do if they leave me alone than of camaraderie. Then, nothingness. I awake without my keys or my wallet or my phone. The only thing I seem to have left on me is regret.
The 12 Keys to the Kingdom
I’m handed what the recovery community call, the “Keys to the Kingdom” in these 12 Steps[r1] . So simple. Sure, let me give it a whirl! I work through them with a hungry fervor. And I feel alive again for the first time in a long time. A glimpse of clarity. I’m told these tools will only work if I work them daily. But I’m smarter, quite frankly, than MOST of these drunks who need it every day. So I set them aside. And the fog slowly returns. And before long I’m drunk again. No wallet, no phone, no comprehension of how this could have happened again.
Almost 3 Years Sober!
Now, as I approach my 3 years sober mark this time, I occasionally think I’ve outgrown the program. I don’t need to run every idea by my sponsor and that meetings are just for fellowship. I’ve read the literature to the point of being able to recite it all from memory and have confidence that I can do this alone. Experience has taught me time and time again where my intellectual independence leads me.
I go to a meeting and call my sponsor. I read my literature, sometimes out loud to a new sponsee! I get on my knees and pray. And because I do all these things on a daily basis I don’t pick up the drink. I don’t question why it works. Or how. I don’t try to out-think the magical simplicity that arises out of surrendering, cleaning house and helping others. I just do it. And I begin to focus on the similarities. And I recognize my story in others. I begin to feel our commonality and our connection. And in connection I find the truth about all knowledge. That we each have unique, personal experience, and therefore a limited understanding of the world. But we can see everything through the eyes of one another.
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