Quitting drugs and living a sober life is an important goal for people who struggle with addiction. However, some factors can make it difficult to stop using substances. One of the significant reasons that victims battle with alcoholism is cravings. Learning how to detect and control this feeling will help you achieve long term sobriety. Addiction treatment facilities such as Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida can identify the factors that influence drinking behavior and advise a patient on the most effective ways to manage alcohol cravings. For alcohol detox services, contact our exceptional team today at 866.294.5306.
What Causes Alcohol Cravings?
Alcohol cravings arise due to biological and external factors that influence drug abuse. For example, drinking for a prolonged period interferes with brain structure and makes it difficult for the body to function without the substance. This behavior also increases the production of a hormone known as dopamine, which causes euphoric feelings. With time, the brain adapts to the high amount and produces more dopamine receptors. The absence of alcohol in the body will then lead to a decrease in dopamine production, which will affect mood.
The influence that alcohol has on moods can trigger drinking even if the user is not physically dependent. For example, some people drink to relax when they feel stressed and anxious. Thus, an encounter with situations that arouse these feelings can cause alcohol cravings. This scenario is the most common reason why people relapse after alcohol addiction treatment. Other external factors that cause alcohol cravings include places you associate with drinking, like bars and social gatherings.
Alcohol Cravings and Withdrawal
Cravings can be challenging to control because they are often accompanied by uncomfortable mental and physical withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms shown can differ depending on the level and nature of alcohol addiction. For example, a high dependence may lead to severe symptoms, while minor addictions may cause mild ones. Some of the signs of alcohol withdrawal to look out for are sleep problems and appetite loss. The lack of alcohol in the body can also affect moods and lead to increased irritability and sadness.
In some cases, the desire to drink decreases energy levels and makes it hard to carry out some activities. This feeling makes it challenging to focus on maintaining sobriety and self-control. As a result, one may hang out in places they used to drink or reconnect with people that trigger drinking, leading to further alcohol cravings. Other common signs of withdrawal are confusion, anxiety, and thinking about alcohol for an extended period.
How to Manage Alcohol Cravings
Learning how to control drinking cues is a crucial skill that helps in preventing addiction and relapse. The most effective technique to avoid these feelings is to undergo alcohol detox. This process can remove accumulated toxins and make it easier for the body function without alcohol. After detox, it is vital to cease keeping alcohol in places of residence to prevent temptations. Another way to fight the desire to drink is to stay away from gatherings in which people consume alcohol.
When quitting any substance, you should inform loved ones of your goals and request their support. This step will help them to come up with ways to avoid exposing you to triggers. Besides, participating in engaging activities like hobbies fights boredom, which can lead to relapse. It is also advisable to keep a record of the situations and settings in which the desires occur.
Managing mild cravings may be effective without help, but some situations might necessitate professional treatment. For instance, people with severe cravings need help to identify psychological triggers. Some of the treatments used in the management of alcohol triggers are;
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Meditation therapy
- Family therapy
- Behavioral therapy
Learn How to Manage Alcohol Cravings at Serenity House Detox & Recovery
Alcohol cravings can lead to problematic drinking and reduce the quality of life. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, we provide alcohol detox and addiction recovery programs to improve your well-being. Enrolling in these plans can speed up your recovery from the effects of alcohol abuse. Our medics can also help you identify the aspects that influence alcohol abuse and teach you how to manage them. Call Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida at 866.294.5306 to start an alcohol-free life.