Managing Triggers During the COVID-19 Pandemic

As the world tries to manage life during the COVID-19 pandemic, it can be even more complicated for a person in addiction recovery, especially early recovery. If you are worried about the COVID-19 pandemic and how it may affect your recovery and sobriety, there are ways you can manage your triggers. Learn about managing triggers during the COVID-19 pandemic by safely practicing social distancing, how to avoid relapse, and ways you can lean on the support around you.

Managing Triggers During The COVID-19 Pandemic While Social Distancing

By now, you have likely heard or used the term “social distancing” on a daily basis. This new practice—in which you are asked to stay at least six feet apart from other people and stay home with only those you live with—can be difficult for individuals in early recovery because being surrounded by support is so important during this time. Practice safe social distancing so that you don’t feel too alone by:

  • Setting up a dinner or game night via video chat or conferencing platforms with friends.
  • Downloading workout apps or checking out YouTube for daily exercises. V virtual live gym classes or workout-buddy groups are popping up everywhere now if you enjoy working out in a group setting.

Avoid Being Hungry, Angry, Alone and Tired

Feeling hungry, angry, alone, or tired can put you on the fast track to relapse if you don’t take control right away. Luckily, there are ways you can safely get in front of it:

  • Get food delivered. Use services such as Grub Hub, Postmates, and your local grocery store so you don’t have to leave your home if you don’t want to. Scheduling a grocery delivery as soon as possible will ensure you won’t run too low on resources.
  • Stay active. It can be hard to stay active when you can’t go to the gym, but you can do at-home workouts or go for a jog in your neighborhood. Exercising is an important part of relieving stress and keeping anger at bay.
  • Keep in contact. Make sure you’re keeping up with your friends and family so that you’re not feeling too alone. Check-in on your friends who are also in recovery so they’re not feeling alone, either.
  • Practice self-care. These times can be stressful and may cause extra worry and anxiety, which can lead to trouble sleeping and becoming too tired. Make sure you practice self-care and do what makes you happy so that you are able to relax.

Attend or Hold Virtual Meetings

Just because you are practicing social distancing doesn’t mean you have to skip your aftercare meetings. There are many resources online for attending recovery meetings virtually to help with managing triggers throughout COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition, you can also take the initiative to start one for your sober support group or for people in your area. Holding Facebook Live chats or organizing a Zoom conference room are great places to start. Chances are, there are many other people wanting to turn to meetings during this time, as well.

Lean on Your Support Network

The most important way you can manage your triggers throughout COVID-19 pandemic is by leaning on your support network. Make sure you check in with your loved ones frequently, especially if you live alone.

  • Be honest about how you are feeling with your support system.
  • Stay aware of the signs of relapse and how you may be feeling and acting.
  • Listen to your loved ones if they start to express concern.

Try to Avoid Triggers One Day at a Time

These are uncertain times and it is totally normal to feel elevated levels of stress or anxiety. Just make sure that you are doing what you can each day to take care of yourself and avoid relapse. If you feel as if you are too overwhelmed, give us a call. We can help you stay on track.

About Cliffside Malibu

Because no two addictions are the same, we develop individualized treatment plans for every client at Cliffside Malibu. We are committed to providing evidence-based treatment through a continuum of care model across a range of levels of care, including medically supervised detox, residential treatment, day treatment, and outpatient services. Our program includes family therapy and holistic therapy, as well. Whether an individual is experiencing substance abuse and/or alcohol addiction, our programs are structured to create a supportive environment where healing can begin.

In addition to world-class treatment, Cliffside Malibu offers luxury accommodations, a serene environment, five-star dining, and plentiful amenities. We understand that addiction treatment is a rigorous process. Therefore, we provide for your comfort and relaxation at every turn, allowing you to rejuvenate, and meet the demands of treatment with your greatest energy and attention.

Visit Cliffside Malibu for more information.