For most people, summer is the time of year to relax, spend time with family, and maybe get a tan at the beach. However, for someone in recovery from addiction, summer can also present some challenges, particularly when it comes to cravings.

In order to more easily stay sober this summer, here are some helpful ways to cope with your summer cravings.

Set a Timer

Cravings typically don’t last too long — often they subside after 30 to 45 minutes. Setting a timer once you feel a craving coming on can often help get you through that time period a bit easier since you have a rough idea when the craving will go away.

Distract Yourself

In the event that you find yourself with a strong craving that you’re not sure you can ignore, distract yourself with an activity that forces you to be aware of what you’re doing. Something as simple as counting backward or reading a book can help you cope with your craving until it has passed.

Exercise

Not only is exercise beneficial for your recovery since it helps get your body back in shape, but it can also be helpful when coping with cravings. Focusing on a specific exercise can distract you from the craving while the endorphins you produced while working out can make the cravings subside altogether.

Do a Cost-Benefit Analysis

When you feel a craving coming on, write down how much using your substance would cost you, benefits of not using, and the benefits of using. Seeing how much better it is to not use drugs or alcohol can help you beat the craving and stay sober.

Silver Ridge specializes in providing clinically effective addiction treatment for professional adults suffering with substance abuse issues. Our Asheville recovery program focuses on the well-being of the whole person by providing a safe place free from the pain of addiction through the encouragement of personal exploration and therapeutic practices. Contact us today to start your journey to sobriety.