Triggers. The very word hints at guns, at violence. That makes it an appropriate word to use when discussing substance use disorder.
That’s because substance use disorder is violent. Like physical violence, substance use disorder can dramatically change a person’s life. Both can divide a person’s life into two parts:
- Before he or she encountered physical violence/substance use disorder.
- After he or she encountered physical violence/substance use disorder.
But unlike physical violence, substance use disorder doesn’t have to be fatal. There are several things people can do to avoid or minimize the causes that trigger their substance use disorder.
Connecting to other people
Social support is so important to fight addiction for so many reasons. Former addicts can contact their relatives and friends to distract themselves and receive social support. As an added bonus, these relatives and friends will be able to see if their loved ones are remaining sober.
Former addicts can also give back and help their relatives. Knowing they can help can boost their self-esteem. Having improved self-esteem might prevent depressed former addicts from turning to addictive substances as a way to cope.
Creating something
Creating things is another way to avoid factors that trigger substance use disorder. The cool thing about this tip is that you can create practically anything.
It can be art: painting, sculpting, taking pictures, and drawing designs and doodles are all ways people create things. Those coloring books for adults can be a fun way to distract people from substance use disorder.
Other people like to decorate their homes, their bodies, or their outfits. Still others like to write and still others like to choreograph dances. The point is, all of these activities require you to do something. All require you to be constructive. Spending time with others is also constructive, because you’re helping to create positive relationships. These tactics are the opposite of abusing drugs or alcohol, which can have a destructive effect on your life in so many ways.
