By Jennifer McDougall
Overcoming cravings to drink or use drugs can be a significant challenge for individuals in recovery from addiction. While traditional 12-step programs have been the standard approach for many years, non-12-step therapy methods are becoming more popular as an alternative approach to addiction treatment. At Passages Malibu, we offer a non-12-step treatment approach focusing on individualized care and addressing the underlying issues contributing to addiction. In this blog post, we will explore practical tips for managing cravings, incorporating non-12-step therapy methods used at Passages Malibu.
- Identify Triggers
Identifying triggers is an essential step in managing cravings, and non-12-step therapy methods can be effective in helping individuals do so. What happened before you suddenly had a craving to drink or use drugs? Are you being influenced by family or peers to drink or use drugs? Did you have a stressful day at work? Are you feeling excited about a recent promotion or opportunity? These are good questions to ask yourself to identify why you want to drink or use drugs. Sometimes you need to dig deep; especially if you have recently experienced trauma, are feeling depressed, or feel the need for some sort of escape from life. Our therapists at Passages Malibu use a range of approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and holistic therapies such as yoga and meditation, to help individuals identify their triggers and develop coping strategies.
- Develop Coping Strategies
Developing coping strategies is another crucial step in managing cravings. At Passages Malibu, we utilize non-12-step therapy methods to help individuals develop coping strategies tailored to their unique needs. This includes CBT, mindfulness-based approaches, and holistic therapies such as acupuncture and massage. Our team of expert addiction specialists supplies clients with useful tools to maintain a healthy path of sobriety even after they graduate from our comprehensive addiction treatment program.
- Practice Self-Care
Self-care is an essential component of maintaining sobriety and managing cravings. Our non-12-step therapy methods at Passages Malibu focus on empowering individuals to take charge of their self-care through various holistic approaches. This includes nutritional counseling, fitness and exercise programs, and activities such as hiking and horseback riding.
- Attend Individualized Therapy
Individualized therapy is vital to our non-12-step treatment approach at Passages Malibu. Our therapists work with individuals to identify underlying issues contributing to addiction, such as trauma, mental health disorders, or co-occurring conditions. Through individualized therapy, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of the root causes of their addiction and work to address them effectively.
- Seek Professional Help
Seeking professional help is an essential step in maintaining sobriety and managing cravings. At Passages Malibu, we offer a range of evidence-based and holistic treatment options, including alternative therapies such as equine therapy, one-on-one counseling, and sound healing. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and substance abuse-related issues, it’s crucial to get professional help to reach a healthy baseline, heal from underlying causes, and become the best version of yourself as you break free from the chains of addiction. Our 24/7 care team is here for you every step of the way, from when you arrive, even after you graduate.
- Find Alternative Activities
Finding alternative activities to replace substance use is an effective strategy for managing cravings. At Passages Malibu, we offer a range of holistic therapies and activities designed to help individuals find purpose and fulfillment without relying on substances. This includes art therapy, music therapy, and adventure therapy. It’s essential to develop new habits and routines in sobriety so that when you are tempted to drink or use drugs, you have a go-to method that soothes that urge and allows it to pass quickly. By engaging in activities you enjoy, you can become more comfortable with yourself and the world around you. You can even learn to use these activities to express your emotions healthily! With Passages Malibu’s help and support, we will help craft a personalized plan for sobriety that works for you. We believe that everyone has the ability to live a healthy, happy, and sober lifestyle in which they can thrive!
- Celebrate Successes
Celebrating successes is essential to our non-12-step treatment approach at Passages Malibu. We believe that acknowledging progress and achievements can help individuals build confidence and reinforce their commitment to sobriety. Our therapists work with individuals to develop personalized goals and celebrate successes.
In conclusion, managing cravings is critical to maintaining sobriety and overcoming addiction. At Passages Malibu, our non-12-step therapy methods focus on individualized care and addressing the underlying issues contributing to addiction. Individuals can effectively manage cravings and achieve lasting recovery by identifying triggers, developing coping strategies, practicing self-care, attending individualized therapy, seeking professional help, finding alternative activities, and celebrating successes.
