Dependence on something, regardless of whether it be cigarettes, alcohol, different medications, or to specific practices (shopping, betting, pornography, and so on), is one of the most challenging things a person could go through. While many addictions require professional treatment, breaking the cycle of addiction is possible to help keep you progressing even when you’re not under professional oversight.
Here are 7 ways to help break the cycle of addiction.
1. Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback, a type of biofeedback, has been used for over forty years to assist patients with beating emotional traumas, including PTSD. Lately, it has also become popular in assisting addicts to overcome many backslide triggers, including sleeping disorders, anxiety and anger management.
2. Exercise
Exercise offers various advantages for the brain. Working out fortifies the brain and body and triggers the release of endorphins. Exercise can relieve pressure and also improve your mood. It also works as a distraction from stresses in life which could lead to addiction and serves to boost energy levels. Regardless of whether you need a motivator like an exercise buddy or a reminder from one of the most current best in class smartwatches or wellness trackers available, search for approaches to get yourself to work out each day.
3. Nutritional Therapy
Nutritional therapy been used for quite some time to help cancer patients with various side-effects from their illness. Combining the right nutrients, minerals and supplements can also help people suffering through addiction. Research has proven that a person can quit smoking with nutritional therapy.
Eating the right combination of nutrients also helps with psychological and emotional well-being as well. Make sure to also include probiotics and fermented food sources to boost your digestive system.
4. Mindfulness and meditation
Mindfulness is the act of staying alert and being present in the moment. There are many benefits to meditation. It influences synapses in the cerebrum that discharge the pressure chemical cortisol. Studies have shown that mindfulness can also reduce relapse rates. “Mindfulness meditation aims to help people understand what drives cravings, and to better deal with the discomfort they create.”
5. Animal Therapy
Animals, especially dogs and horses, are very common in rehabilitative settings. They are especially effective in helping in mood enhancement. Spending time with animals can minimize the sensation of pain, increase self-esteem and help regulate the heart rate and blood pressure. Many people suffering from addiction report that spending time with an animal helps them feel more motivated in their recovery efforts.
6. Art Therapy
An activity based treatment like gardening and animal therapy, art therapy is used as a way to aid in self-expression and may facilitate confidence needed in recovery for substance abusers.
7. Develop a Support System
Going through any addiction is tough especially on your own. These helpful tips along with looking for help from our family, companions, educators, treatment centers and support groups can help with addiction treatment, and assist in getting us back on track. Turning to a support group can help our current circumstances as sell as challenges that come up throughout everyday life that may lead to a relapse.
If you need help or would like more information about what is available, find more resources on https://www.samhsa.gov/.