Engaging in physical activity such as jogging or going for a walk can be beneficial for releasing tension and clearing the mind. For those who prefer more creative outlets, it may be helpful to take art or music therapy to express emotions without relying on substances. Addiction triggers can be challenging to identify, especially in the early stages of recovery. But understanding and recognizing them is critical to successful long-term sobriety. Get professional help from an online addiction and mental health counselor from BetterHelp.

The behavior that emerges after a trigger can range from relatively minimal (crying) to serious (acts of violence). Someone exposed to a trigger may experience impaired judgment or awareness. Recognizing the warning signs before relapse is one of the best ways to intervene early and prevent it entirely.

Alcohol Use Disorder

For example, a certain smell might remind someone of a traumatic experience and smelling that scent again later can trigger emotions. Everyone deals with triggers and life happening that can disrupt the flow of life, every day. External triggers are easier to identify and manage than internal ones. Substance abuse treatment aims to help individuals recognize the early warning signs of relapse and develop healthy coping skills to thwart a potential relapse. Although many people who seek treatment for addiction hope that they can stay sober afterwards, approximately 40 to 60 percent of people relapse. A relapse doesn’t mean that you failed or that the treatment wasn’t successful.

As a result, we typically turn to a habitual or addictive way of trying to manage the painful feelings. Triggers bring up intense memories and feelings of using substances. They can be internal, such as feelings, or external, like coming into contact with people, places, and certain stressors. A therapist can help you work out complex emotions that may arise as you go through recovery. Your therapist can also teach you tools and strategies for coping with cravings and triggers.

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This can be anything from certain social situations, responsibilities, and even specific places that trigger your desire to use again. For those struggling with substance abuse and addiction, it isn’t uncommon for the affected person to return to alcohol or drug use. About 40-60% of those struggling with addiction relapse following treatment. Generally, trigger warnings are given to help prevent people who have experienced trauma from experiencing the trauma again and experiencing mental health symptoms as a result. Alexandra oversees all operations with The Freedom Center to ensure clients are given the best chance at success. She works with The Freedom Center team to develop and implement policies, procedures and oversees Intakes and Transportation.

It is important to note the difference between a trigger and a craving. A craving is a physical feeling of want for drugs, alcohol, or any other thing a person was addicted to. When a craving happens there is a mental, and often physical, urge to start using again. It can remind you of your wedding day, when you went through internal trigger examples a bad breakup, or a party you went to in college. While it can be difficult to control triggers, those who experience them can learn from past experiences, apply what they learn, and limit the risk of being re-triggered. Avoid only focusing on what happens after a trigger; also focus on what can be done beforehand.