1. Use Physical Activity- If you feel the urge to engage in an addiction then physical activity can help. Instead of relapsing go for a walk, work out at the gym, or take a bike ride. When you exercise your body will produce feel good chemicals naturally, and these will lift your mood and make relapse less likely.
2. Go To A Meeting- In larger cities there are meetings for addiction almost every night. AA is for alcoholics, NA is for narcotic users, and there are even groups for sex and shopping addictions as well. Find out when meetings are held for your specific addiction, and attend one if things get tough and you are tempted to backslide.
3. Talk Through It- Call or meet with your sponsor or support person, and talk through the whirlwind of emotions that you are feeling. Stress and anger can both trigger a relapse, but many times talking with your designated support person can help defuse these emotions and keep you sober.
4. Turn On Some Music- The old saying about music soothing is very true, and music will help relieve stress and improve your frame of mind. Choose music that is soothing and enjoyable, and then concentrate on these sounds while blocking out everything else.
5. Take A Long Hot Bath- A long hot bath will relieve physical and emotional stress both. Soaking can prevent a relapse in some cases. Make the water as hot as you can stand it, and then try to empty your mind while you lay in the warm water and relax.
