Ways to Distract Yourself When Faced with Cravings

If you’re a recovering alcoholic – whether you’re early in your recovery or have many years of sobriety under your belt – cravings are likely going to be a part of your experience. Cravings aren’t easy. In fact, for some, it may be hard to identify a craving, especially for those who are new to sobriety. If you’re used to drinking or using drugs the moment you have a yearning for them, it may be hard to say no to cravings when they show up. Discovering an effective distraction from cravings can be a challenge. But with help from Westwind Recovery®, individuals can learn to cope and keep their sobriety pristine.

Finding A Distraction From Cravings

There are ways to manage those cravings so that they don’t get the best of you. One way is to simply distract yourself. In other words, you may suddenly have the urge to drink, but instead of acting on that urge, you decide to do something else. And when you engage in another activity, you take your mind off the craving. Distracting yourself to manage your cravings is like peeling your attention away from the craving and gluing your attention to something else.

Use Activities And Staying Occupied

Here is a list of activities that can become a part of your distraction toolbox when a craving appears:

• Watch a movie.
• Chew on some gum.
• Listen to music.
• Get creative.
• Watch TV.
• Start writing in your journal.
• Play a game.
• Have a snack.

But one of the best ways to deal with cravings is by talking to someone you love or are friends with. For some, this also involves connecting with a higher power through prayer or meditation. It’s led some individuals into practicing yoga where they gain both spiritual support and group support when they are involved in a class. Some other activities to pursue as a distraction from cravings can be:

• Go for a hike.
• Take your children out for the afternoon.
• Lend a helping hand to a friend or family member in need.
• Read a good novel.
• Write a letter to a friend.
• Make a list of all the things you want to achieve in your life.

Sometimes creating a list of all the wonderful things you’d like to do – visit France, go skydiving, or become a public speaker–can help. Volunteering at a local public service agency is another way to stay occupied as is cleaning your house or apartment. Don’t feel guilty about surfing the Internet for sobriety sites and find some inspiration. Engage your intellectual mind through reading or writing. Challenge yourself to learn a craft or skill you’ve always wanted to learn but haven’t, like playing the guitar.

Whether it’s diving into your work life and letting your achievements motivate you or allowing the craving to exist but resist answering its call, you can find ways to occupy yourself. However, it’s important to examine what might have led to the craving – a thought, a mood, a feeling. Then challenge yourself to shift that mood, feeling, or thought each time you experience it.

Westwind Recovery®

These are suggestions for curbing any impulsive reactions to cravings. Instead of giving in to an urge to use, distract yourself with a healthy activity. Here at Westwind Recovery®, we understand the importance of finding ways to make one’s recovery lasting. Avoiding cravings but learning how to cope with them is especially important. For many individuals, finding a distraction from cravings can best be achieved in a sober living home. Westwind Recovery® offers several unique locations, such as:

• Colgate House
• Hayes House
• Houdini house
• Laurel House
• Maryland House

So reach out to us today at 855.340.8832 to find the support you need to keep your sobriety intact.