Magic Mushroom Edibles Are Toxic

Magic Mushroom Edibles Are Toxic

The market for edibles, gummies and capsules containing extracts of the fungus Amanita Muscaria is raising eyebrows, though, amid concerns from the FDA and in the absence of human clinical trials and the mere fact the fungus is toxic if consumed.

Products containing mushroom extracts have appeared in shops and e-commerce platforms across several states, ranging from Florida to Minnesota and Nebraska to Pennsylvania. Companies promote a gentler psychoactive effect in comparison to psilocybin, a Schedule 1 hallucinogen that is still prohibited on a federal level, targeting individuals seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or joint discomfort.

Federal officials and experts in mycology have advised caution, leading Florida regulators to restrict sales in at least five counties. Certain applications of the mushroom and its compounds have resulted in severe side effects, such as delirium, drowsiness, and coma, as reported by Courtney Rhodes, a spokesperson from the Food and Drug Administration.

Heather Hallen-Adams, a University of Nebraska-Lincoln faculty member who researches fungi in food, stated that the safety and effectiveness of the products have not been assessed in any human clinical trials. In December, Chillum, a hemp dispensary in Tampa’s Ybor City neighborhood, ceased the sale of edibles after the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services deemed A. muscaria a hazardous ingredient. The dispensary returned $30,000 worth of products to Psilo Mart; a supplier based in the Las Vegas area that claims to import the mushroom from Lithuania. Following this, the Agriculture Department, responsible for regulating shops that retail items like hemp vapes, lifted its restrictions on the dispensary.

Drew Gennuso, the president of Psilo Mart, mentioned that he is unaware of any significant issues with the edibles. Carlos Hermida, the owner of Chillum, expressed his confidence in the safety of the products. Hermida described the effects of the fungus as mild and not overpowering.

Recently, Hermida resumed selling the products within the price range of $20 to $55. To prevent another state mandate, Chillum has included labels cautioning that the products are intended for educational or spiritual purposes only, not for human consumption.

The fungus and its components have not received approval from federal authorities for sale as food additives or for the treatment of medical conditions. The Tampa incident highlights the regulatory gaps in this emerging national market, despite concerns raised by federal officials. John Michelotti, the leader of the medicinal mushrooms committee at the North American Mycological Association and the founder of Catskill Fungi, a New York-based business specializing in mushroom extracts, noted that companies are progressing faster than the available research.

The crackdown in Chillum started in October when the state Agriculture Department gathered product samples for laboratory analysis. Upon revisiting in December, the department reported findings of increased levels of harmful heavy metals in a Psilo Mart hemp joint containing A. muscaria powder, as indicated by department records.

Hermida disposed of his mushroom joint inventory and was instructed by regulators to cease the sale of other fungus products. The regulators cited a state law that defines food as “adulterated” if it “contains any poisonous or harmful substance that could cause harm to health.”

According to Hermida, the gummies infused with extracts induce a sensation of feeling “high and drunk,” while the capsules create a “tingly body feeling” and distort depth perception. While the mushroom is poisonous, it is likely not lethal and can be detoxified by boiling it in water. Hermida emphasized that consuming the raw fungus differs from using small amounts of its chemicals.

In recovery it is a dangerous line to walk when trying to find a legal high, but in most cases, you’re replacing one addiction for another. Its especially dangerous when we are taking a known poison and ingesting it without the knowledge of clinical trials.

Reach Out for More Information About Transformations by the Gulf

Our addiction treatment services include a variety of programs, designed to follow guests through the recovery process.

We offer residential treatment programs including residential inpatient program. Transformations by the Gulf treatment center also offers: a partial hospitalization program (PHP), an intensive outpatient program (IOP), an intensive outpatient program with community housing.

 

If you have any questions about our treatment options, please reach out to one of our addiction specialists at (727)498-6498 our team is available to speak with you 24/7. Because We Care.

 

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Alcohol Shakes a Sign of Withdrawal

Alcohol Shakes a Sign of Withdrawal

Have you heard of alcohol shakes? Perhaps you've come across this term because you or a loved one is currently experiencing them and seeking answers. Alcohol shakes refer to the trembling and shaky hands that occur after abstaining from alcohol for a period. While they may be bothersome in mild cases, they can significantly disrupt daily life in more severe instances. Additionally, alcohol shakes can indicate a potential alcohol use disorder, a condition that affected over 4% of Floridians in 2019. You are not facing this challenge alone. Tranquil Shores is dedicated to reducing this statistic through a range of unique therapies tailored to individual needs. Despite each person's recovery journey being unique, individuals with alcohol use disorders can find common ground, even if it's simply through shared experiences of alcohol shakes. Today, let's delve deeper into this topic.

What Are Alcohol Shakes?

Alcohol shakes are often a symptom of alcohol withdrawal, but they may also occur following episodes of heavy drinking. They commonly manifest as trembling in the hands and fingers, potentially indicating an alcohol use disorder. While these tremors are typically mild, they have the potential to be severe and disrupt daily functioning. Alcohol-induced tremors commonly occur as a withdrawal symptom, although there is a slight possibility of them manifesting in conjunction with alcohol-induced brain damage and liver disease. Let's delve deeper into these connections. Alcohol shakes are an early sign of alcohol withdrawal. There are other alcohol withdrawal symptoms you should also look out for such as:

  •  Anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Sweating
  • Insomnia

If you have recently quit drinking alcohol after using it regularly, and you are now experiencing these symptoms, your alcohol shakes are probably a withdrawal symptom. The duration of these shakes will differ from one individual to another, but they are typically most severe within 48-72 hours.

How to get through alcohol shakes?

The most effective treatment for alcohol shakes is a medically supervised alcohol detox and therapy for alcohol use disorder. Home remedies or alternative tips are unlikely to address the underlying issue of alcohol use disorder and may only offer temporary relief from alcohol shakes. It is common for individuals to revert to alcohol use as a way to manage alcohol shakes and other withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, we strongly advocate for alcohol rehabilitation as the preferred option. If you are unable to seek treatment immediately, there are alternative methods to alleviate the discomfort of alcohol shakes without resorting to alcohol consumption.

Reach Out for More Information About Transformations by the Gulf

Our addiction treatment services include a variety of programs, designed to follow guests through the recovery process.

We offer residential treatment programs including residential inpatient program. Transformations by the Gulf treatment center also offers: a partial hospitalization program (PHP), an intensive outpatient program (IOP), an intensive outpatient program with community housing.

 

If you have any questions about our treatment options, please reach out to one of our addiction specialists at (727)498-6498 our team is available to speak with you 24/7. Because We Care.

 

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Fear of the Unknown in Recovery

Fear of the Unknown in Recovery

Fear is the number one emotion that comes to mind when the idea of getting help for your addiction comes up. It feels like a stressful or distressing emotion that creates the fear of impending doom, fear is a trigger for both anxiety and avoidance. It can cause a full-blown panic attack or drive someone away from the help they need. The fact is you have probably been so used to or so stuck in the same routine that anything other than that appears as terrifying when in all fact it isn't. It's simply that you do not know how to regulate your emotions due to the constant numbing of feelings or coping through drugs, alcohol, or other risky behaviors. This is the number one reason why people do not get help.

The Facts

People fear a lot of different things when addiction treatment or recovery is brought up. Some of the most common fears include:

  • Fear that treatment won’t work.
  • Fear that treatment will hurt or be painful.
  • Fear that life won’t be as enjoyable when sober.
  • Fear that the challenges of life will be too much to bare without drugs or alcohol.
  • Fear that treatment will cost too much.
  • Fear that recovery will create too many boundaries.
  • Fear that staying sober will be too difficult.
  • Fear that relationships will suffer in recovery (especially if only ONE partner in the relationship chooses recovery).

How Fear Affects Recovery

Fear can hinder the recovery process. Many individuals often let their fear obstruct their path to recovery, leading them to forgo treatment or discontinue treatment when faced with challenges. Experiencing fear during recovery is common, but excessive fear can hinder your progress. Be ready to address any instances of overwhelming fear that may obstruct your path to full recovery from substance abuse or addiction.

  • Fear that impeded emotional healing in recovery.
  • Fear that is used to justify relapse.
  • Fear that builds a sense of dissatisfaction in recovery.
  • Fear that causes you to make poor decisions.
  • Fear that creates undue stress and leads to relapse.
  • Fear stopping you in your tracks, preventing you from taking action and getting help.
  • Fear that prevents you from thinking clearly about what is necessary.

 

Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?

If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help. Find out more information from Psychology Today!
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.

Our residential homes and treatment facilities are near the beach and offer a comfortable setting for rehabilitation. If you or a loved one needs help, contact Transformations By The Gulf to learn more about our recovery services.

If you are ready to start planning your treatment process, give us a call. (727)498-6498

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Recovering Alcoholics Shouldn’t Drink Kombucha

Recovering Alcoholics Shouldn’t Drink Kombucha

Kombucha is popular among yoga instructors and health enthusiasts and is being praised as a miraculous elixir. However, for individuals recovering from alcohol or drug addiction, the presence of natural alcohol in kombucha can pose a concern, despite its minimal amount. It is not recommended for consumption if you are in recovery and can be viewed as a relapse.

Alcoholics Anonymous serves as a supportive environment for individuals in recovery, where achievements of all sizes are acknowledged, and accountability is upheld by peers striving towards sobriety. However, the presence of minimal alcohol content in beverages such as kombucha can present a dilemma for certain members. Kombucha may or may not contain wondrous healing powers, as many of its most devoted drinkers claim, but it contains booze.

Kombucha with less than 0.5% ABV, classified as non-alcoholic by the TTB, undergoes a primary fermentation period lasting from five to 30 days, depending on taste preferences. During this phase, the sugar content decreases, resulting in a more vinegary taste. The secondary fermentation occurs when the kombucha is bottled and left to enhance its flavor and carbonation, potentially increasing the ABV levels to up to 2.5%. To achieve ABV levels exceeding 3%, the drink must undergo a third fermentation by incorporating grains, leading to the creation of what brewers refer to as "kombucha ale" or "probiotic beer."

In 2010, It was found that some Kombucha was testing at upwards of 3% alcohol content and had to be pulled from shelves in Whole Foods stores. This is why you are walking a tightrope with your recovery if you plan to consume kombucha when in recovery.

Get Help Today

If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.

Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Check out our page on addiction treatments.

 


What Is a Sober Living?

What Is a Sober Living?

A sober living home is a communal residence run by peers that aims to support individuals in staying sober. This is accomplished by adhering to sobriety regulations, attending recovery meetings, and actively engaging in household tasks. Residents of these homes rent rooms on a long-term basis and lead a lifestyle aligned with their commitments, such as employment and education.

If you or a friend has recently stopped consuming alcohol and is now sober, congratulations. Ceasing alcohol intake can be a challenging process. Now that the detox stage is complete and you have finished your time at a rehabilitation facility, you may be curious about what comes next upon returning home. This phase can be crucial for your sobriety. Treatment programs generally provide structure and routines that aid in maintaining sobriety. Losing this support after completing the program can pose a risk to your recovery.

Discover the role of a sober living house in supporting individuals on the path to recovery from addiction. These residences offer a structured environment and assistance for individuals in the healing process. They serve as a transitional setting between formal treatment and reintegration into society. Explore the concept of sober living houses, their origins, variations, suitable candidates, and methods for locating one.

Sober Living Houses

The majority of individuals living in these residences have just finished a program for treatment, either as an inpatient or outpatient. Exiting the treatment regimen can greatly impact your sobriety, which is why these programs have rigorous schedules consisting of counseling, group therapy, and engaging activities. Although a sober living home does not provide counseling sessions, it does offer a supportive environment and a sense of routine to assist in sustaining sobriety. Furthermore, maintaining your sobriety usually necessitates a living space that is devoid of substances. Sober living facilities are commonly seen as a pathway for sober individuals to reintegrate into mainstream society.

The History of Sober Living Houses

Sober living houses were established in the late 1940s by active members of Alcoholics Anonymous, who created a living environment based on the "12-step" program. These residences, usually located in low-income areas, had strict rules about sobriety and mandatory attendance at AA meetings, held both in the house and nearby community centers. Since their inception, sober living houses have adapted to better serve individuals in recovery. Today, sober living organizations streamline the process of finding suitable housing, and there are also numerous independent sober living houses that have maintained similar protocols to those established in the late 1940s.

Types of Sober Living Houses

There are a few types of sober living houses:

  • Traditional sober living home, residents pay a monthly rent, attend recovery meetings, maintain sobriety, and contribute to household tasks.
  • Sober re-entry program, also called halfway houses, sober living residences are commonly suggested for individuals who were previously incarcerated. Some may still be on parole, completing their sentences under supervision outside of prison. Parole often mandates drug-free status, making a sober living residence crucial. These initiatives provide support during the reintegration process. While some programs are not exclusively tailored for former inmates, they follow strict guidelines and have on-site staff. Many programs impose a maximum length of stay.
  • Transitional housing programs, these are facilities where individuals who were once homeless can reside as they work towards stability and finding permanent housing. Certain transitional housing programs may request evidence of sobriety.

Get Help Today

If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.

Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Check out our page on addiction treatments.

 


drinking problem

What Happens If I Relapse?

What Happens If I Relapse?

Even if you work hard on your recovery and remain dedicated to staying sober for life, there is always a possibility of experiencing a relapse.

Following a relapse, individuals often face emotions of shame and regret. They might also consider surrendering to their addiction instead of persisting in their efforts to conquer the temporary urge to use. These reactions are common but can pose obstacles to achieving a life free of drugs. View this relapse as an educational opportunity; refine your prevention strategy and pinpoint your triggers. By delving into the underlying reasons for the relapse, you will establish the groundwork for a successful recovery that will empower you to come back even stronger.

What Causes a Relapse?

It is common for individuals to relapse after achieving a period of sobriety. Around fifty percent of recovering addicts encounter a brief moment of vulnerability that leads them to resume using drugs or alcohol. Recognizing certain warning signs can assist in preventing this situation.

Relapse Warning Signs

Signs that may predict an upcoming relapse include but are not limited to:

  • Failing to prioritize sobriety can increase the risk of relapse. Success entails dedicating yourself to the necessary efforts for maintaining long-term sobriety. This involves actively participating in 12-step meetings, finding a reliable sponsor, and seeking therapy for potential mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
  • Many individuals enter treatment to satisfy loved ones rather than being fully dedicated to quitting for personal reasons. Without genuine self-motivation to quit, the likelihood of relapse increases significantly.
  • Lack of readiness for life after treatment underscores the necessity of developing a relapse prevention strategy for reentering normal life after treatment. Recognizing factors that can jeopardize sobriety, like problematic family relationships, negative friendships, loneliness, and unhealthy habits, is essential. Early identification of triggers can safeguard the progress made toward maintaining sobriety.

Remembering to have a support group of family and friends can help keep you focused on healing. They can provide stable foundation and encourage discipline or compassion needed in this time.

I Relapsed…Now What?

The initial step involves assessing the necessity of returning to rehab. In case the issue was a one-time occurrence and there is a strong commitment to reviewing or adjusting the recovery plan, an inpatient facility may not be required. This approach provides patients with direct treatment and continuous monitoring. Nevertheless, if a recurring pattern of substance abuse emerges, re-entering a rigorous treatment program may be necessary. Engaging in conversations about substance use, spending time with individuals who promote drinking, or resorting to substance abuse as a coping mechanism are indicators of a more serious issue that warrants prompt intervention.

Returning to treatment should involve a stronger emphasis on therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which has shown success in teaching individuals in recovery new behavioral responses to distorted thinking. Other therapy options to consider include art and music therapy, yoga and relaxation techniques, physical fitness, and equine therapy. These strategies can be beneficial in maintaining a stress-free life and managing depression, grief, anxiety, or anger post-treatment. Upon re-entering treatment following a relapse, the focus should shift towards transitioning back to everyday life. Consider residing in a sober living environment for a few months to reduce the risk of relapse, as the structure and support can be instrumental during the initial months after treatment. It is also wise to have an outpatient therapy plan in place for continued support upon completion of the program.

Get Help Today

If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.

Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Rehab Path to read our reviews or check out our page on addiction treatments.

 


People sitting around at a 12 step meetings

Early Struggles After Rehab

Early Struggles After Rehab

Recovering from addiction is a difficult and brave process. Some people see rehabilitation as a quick fix for their issues, but it's important to recognize that rehab is only the initial phase in achieving lasting recovery. Adapting to post-rehab life and avoiding relapse demands continual dedication and perseverance.

Recovery Continues After Rehab

Rehabilitation programs offer a strong base for recovery, yet they do not ensure permanent sobriety independently. It is essential to recognize that recovery is a continuous journey that goes beyond the limits of a rehab center. Once finishing a rehab program, individuals need to actively strive for their ongoing recovery.

Post-Rehab Obstacles to Recovery

Social pressure poses a considerable obstacle in staying sober post-rehab. Individuals in social environments might unknowingly present drugs or alcohol, disregarding one's dedication to recovery. Additionally, there could be a tendency to stigmatize sobriety. To overcome this obstacle:

  • Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who understand your goals and respect your sobriety.
  • Communicate your boundaries and the importance of sobriety to those around you.
  • Develop an exit strategy if you find yourself in a situation that compromises your recovery.

A feeling of Isolation After Rehab

After completing rehabilitation, people may feel isolated or lonely. They might need to establish new social connections or create distance from harmful influences. Dealing with isolation can be made simpler by following these steps:

  1. Engage in support groups or alumni programs where you can connect with others who have similar experiences.
  2. Seek out new hobbies or activities that promote social interaction and personal growth.
  3. Maintain regular communication with your therapist or counsellor to address any feelings of isolation and develop coping strategies.

Dealing with Mental Health After Rehab

Mental health issues often coexist with addiction. After rehab, it is essential to prioritize mental health and seek appropriate support:

  1. Establish a comprehensive aftercare plan that includes ongoing therapy or counselling sessions.
  2. Practice self-care techniques such as exercise, meditation, and maintaining a healthy routine.
  3. Reach out to mental health professionals who specialize in addiction and co-occurring disorders for additional support.

Rehab Alumni Programs

Post-rehab alumni programs provide ongoing support and connection for rehab graduates. By participating in these programs, individuals can enjoy benefits such as:

  1. Access to a supportive community that understands the challenges of recovery.
  2. Opportunities for ongoing education, workshops, and skill-building sessions.
  3. Mentorship from individuals who have successfully maintained sobriety.

Communicating with Friends and Family

Honest and open communication with friends and family is crucial in preventing relapse. Consider the following steps:

  1. Educate your loved ones about addiction and the challenges of recovery.
  2. Share your goals, triggers, and boundaries with those close to you.
  3. Seek their support and encourage them to participate in family therapy or support groups.

Try Out New Hobbies

Trying new hobbies and activities can provide a healthy outlet for emotions and help prevent relapse. Here is how:

  1. Explore activities that align with your interests and passions.
  2. Engage in physical activities or sports to promote physical and mental well-being.
  3. Cultivate new hobbies that stimulate creativity and promote personal growth.

Available treatment for after rehab

12-step programs offer a structured approach to recovery. These programs emphasize:

  1. Fellowship and support from individuals who have walked the same path.
  2. Accountability through regular meetings and working through the 12 steps.
  3. Spiritual growth and a higher power as a source of strength.

Individual post-rehab therapy

Individual therapy offers a safe environment to tackle particular obstacles and navigate deeper concerns. The advantages of individual therapy encompass:

  1. Tailored treatment plans designed to meet your unique needs.
  2. Identifying and addressing underlying emotional or psychological factors contributing to addiction.
  3. Developing coping skills and relapse prevention strategies.

Support groups for recovering addicts and loved ones

Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), offer a community-based approach to recovery. Benefits of support groups include:

  1. Peer support and shared experiences.
  2. Learning from others who have successfully navigated similar challenges.
  3. Building a network of support outside of formal treatment settings.

If you are using drugs or alcohol, you may have an addiction that requires professional help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer programs that let you continue on with your daily life by living at home but coming in for the treatment you need. Transformations by the Gulf provides a secure and supportive environment to address negative emotions and develop coping mechanisms essential for the recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.

Being Supportive to an Addict After Rehab, are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Rehab Path to read our reviews or check out our page on addiction treatments.

 

 


Coping with Boredom in Recovery

Boredom is typically seen as something negative, but it does have its benefits. When there's not much happening around you, you can take the opportunity to think about the bigger picture of your life. It's easy to lose sight of what really matters beyond daily concerns. When you're bored, you can take a moment to reflect on what's truly important, rather than just what's urgent or immediate.

Feeling bored can lead to reflecting on the bigger picture of life when there are no immediate pressures. On the other hand, if you tend to avoid contemplating your life, you might actively try to ward off boredom to prevent such thoughts from arising. This could be a result of a hectic lifestyle or possibly struggling with addictive behaviors.

If you lack the energy to contemplate your life and often feel indifferent or worn out, it may be time to focus on improving your physical health or addressing any underlying depression.

Boredom can occur after finishing a significant task. Instead of viewing this boredom as a negative, you can see it as a transitional period. Similarly, after completing a challenging workout, your body requires time to transition back to a normal activity level.

Boredom can occur when you're stuck in an activity you don't want to do but have to keep at, like a dull meeting. It can be hard to think about the bigger picture of your life in these moments. However, there are ways to multitask or take control of the situation, and even avoid it in the future. Boredom is a common part of life, and learning to accept it and use it as a prompt for productive activities can help it fit naturally into your life.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or mental illness, we can help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer a safe and nurturing space to navigate negative emotions and practice coping skills that will support you in your recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.

Are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Psychology Today or check out or page on addiction treatments.

 


Ways to Handle a Drug or Alcohol Craving

Ways to Handle a Drug or Alcohol Craving

Managing cravings is a significant challenge during the recovery process. The intense urges can feel overwhelming and sudden. However, it's important to remember that cravings can be managed. Developing effective strategies for handling cravings is crucial for a successful recovery. Below are some tactics for addressing cravings as they occur.

Accept It

When a craving arises, the first step is to acknowledge that cravings are common and unavoidable. Every individual in strong recovery has encountered cravings and likely continues to do so occasionally. Experiencing a craving does not indicate wrongdoing, failure, or an inevitable relapse; it is simply a regular part of the process. After being accustomed to using an addictive substance daily, possibly for an extended period, it is expected to feel the temptation to use it again occasionally. However, attempting to suppress or dismiss the urge will only intensify it. Embrace the fact that you are facing a craving and avoid feeling guilty about it but seek ways to address it.

Distract Yourself

Cravings are temporary and usually fade very quickly unless you focus on them. To avoid dwelling on a craving, engage in activities that demand your full concentration, such as working, reading, playing a video game, taking a walk, chatting with friends, or any other absorbing task. By redirecting your attention, you can effectively overcome the craving without struggling to suppress it.

Run Away

If a craving persists, there may be a triggering situation keeping it alive, such as being in a place that serves alcohol, being with someone you used to drink with, or being around someone who stresses you out. Leaving the situation is often the best course of action. For example, if you're in the grocery store struggling to pass the liquor aisle, consider leaving. It's important to understand your triggers to avoid and recognize them. Even if you're unsure why the craving persists, a change of setting may help resolve the issue.

Examine Your Thinking

Our thoughts can often heighten cravings unnecessarily. When a craving arises, you might start thinking, "Oh no, a craving! This is terrible! I'll never resist it!" This only adds to the stress of the craving and intensifies it. Instead, acknowledge it, as mentioned earlier, and observe your thoughts. Remind yourself that cravings come and go, and you'll be okay in a few minutes. It's also possible that a craving has emerged in response to stress unrelated to substance use. Perhaps you're upset with someone or feeling overwhelmed at work. Notice your thoughts about these situations. Are you thinking that someone shouldn't have treated you a certain way? Are you making your work situation out to be worse than it is? Recognizing and challenging cognitive distortions can reduce your stress and lessen the intensity of cravings.

Get Some Exercise

Engaging in physical activity is a highly effective method for managing cravings. It serves as a powerful distraction, particularly when the activity involves skill or social interaction, such as participating in a team sport. Additionally, exercise diminishes anxiety, enhances mood, and notably, bolsters emotional control and willpower. These advantages prove particularly valuable when faced with cravings. Simply taking a walk in your local area can assist in dispelling a craving, as within 20 minutes, it can be entirely forgotten.

Practice Mindfulness

When you feel a craving, one method to manage it is by mindfully examining it. Usually, people perceive a craving as a directive emanating from a subconscious level. It's like an inner voice shouting "DRINK!" Automatically, you may either succumb to it or try to resist and dismiss it.

However, you can take a step back and observe the craving. What sensations does it provoke? Where in your body do you sense it? In your chest? Your stomach? Step back and analyze the sensation without making judgments or feeling obligated to act. Does it shift or evolve? As the sensation begins to diminish, release it. This becomes more effortless with daily mindfulness meditation practice. By regularly observing thoughts and sensations without becoming entangled in them, you'll discover it's simpler to endure even strong cravings.

Play The Tape

To combat cravings, consider employing the "play the tape" technique. When you experience cravings, your mind may distort reality, leading you to romanticize past substance use and entertain thoughts like "I've been clean for a while, one time won't hurt." To combat these temptations, mentally fast-forward and vividly envision the aftermath of giving in to the craving - the disappointment, family letdown, relapse, and restarting recovery. Revisit the reasons behind your sobriety to counter the allure of using again.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or mental illness, we can help. At Transformations by the Gulf, we offer a safe and nurturing space to navigate negative emotions and practice coping skills that will support you in your recovery journey. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call us today at (727)498-6498.

Are you struggling with addiction and want to learn more? Visit Psychology Today or check out or page on addiction treatments.

 


What are Coping Skills?

What are ‘Coping Skills’ and How to Use Them

Life is filled with challenging circumstances that are beyond our control. However, we do have the ability to manage our reactions to these challenges. Enhancing our coping mechanisms is crucial for our mental well-being, as it allows us to distance ourselves from our initial responses and create room for a more effective approach.

For instance, if you're feeling frustrated at work, your initial response might be to resign or send several angry emails. This might provide temporary relief, but it won't benefit you in the future. You might find yourself questioning your actions once the situation calms down. A more effective approach would be to use coping strategies to ease or divert your frustration, allowing you to respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively.

Unhealthy Coping Skills

For instance, if you're feeling frustrated at work, your initial response might be to resign or send several angry emails. This might provide temporary relief, but it won't benefit you in the future. You might find yourself questioning your actions once the situation calms down. A more effective approach would be to use coping strategies to ease or divert your frustration, allowing you to respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively.
The coping mechanisms you're using aren't effective because they don't genuinely improve our well-being. For instance, alcohol is a depressant that can leave you feeling even worse after trying to numb your issues with it. This can also lead to dependence. Overall, adopting healthy coping habits will bring clarity, while unhealthy ones will result in more significant challenges. If you find yourself relying on unhealthy strategies, seeking guidance from a therapist to recognize triggers and swap harmful behaviors for more positive alternatives can be beneficial.

The Two Types of Healthy Coping Skills

According to the Centre for Studies on Human Stress, healthy coping skills are either problem-focused or emotion-focused.

Problem-focused coping skills

Problem-focused activities involve identifying practical solutions to reduce or resolve the source of stress. In a professional setting, this could entail direct communication with your manager, setting boundaries for time management, or seeking alternative job opportunities. Individuals who enjoy creating to-do lists and completing tasks may gravitate towards problem-focused coping skills.

When using this coping style, it's important to keep in mind that taking small steps is acceptable. It's crucial to maintain a balance between making progress and being kind to yourself. You may not be able to solve everything immediately, but identifying a few things that can significantly improve your stress levels is possible. The positive aspect is that you're not ignoring the problem, but rather taking steps to address it. Certain issues have clear solutions, and any action taken to move closer to our objectives will help reduce stress.

Emotion-focused coping

Coping techniques that focus on managing emotions can be helpful in handling feelings related to a situation, rather than the event itself. There may not be a specific issue to address, or it might be a one-time occurrence that cannot be avoided. In such instances, it is important to comfort or stabilize your emotions through activities that work well for you, such as exercise, spending time with pets, taking a relaxing bath, being in nature, or watching a movie. At times, we may not be ready to confront a situation and require more relaxation time. Emotion-focused coping skills aim to nurture and restore, providing a recharge for the next phase.

Ensure that you are nurturing, rather than suppressing, your emotions by accurately identifying your feelings. If you're uncertain about your emotions, consider using a feeling wheel. This approach aims to acknowledge and sit with your emotions instead of pushing them away. Show kindness to your emotions and refrain from self-criticism. Trust that your feelings will diminish over time. Mindfulness-based meditation can effectively help manage stress related to emotions.

The Difference Between Coping Skills and Self-Care

Coping skills are techniques or activities employed during stressful situations. They are methods utilized to acquire additional energy or time. Conversely, self-care is an activity practiced irrespective of stress levels.

Self-care is recommended by experts as a proactive approach that can reduce the necessity for coping mechanisms later on. This is because tending to your emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical well-being can lessen severe distress and burnout that necessitate coping strategies. When we are depleted, we become more susceptible to stress and less able to handle challenging situations.

There are moments when life presents challenges, requiring the application of healthy coping mechanisms to navigate through difficult times. Periodically, we all need to take a break, employ our coping strategies, and then proceed with life when we feel prepared.

Seeking Treatment with Transformations by the Gulf?

If you or a loved one needs treatment and rehabilitation for substance use, Transformations by the Gulf can help. Find out more information from Psychology Today!
Transformations by the Gulf offers individualistic and holistic recovery services. We designed our inpatient and outpatient programs to treat individuals based on biological, psychological, familial and social needs.

Our residential homes and treatment facilities are near the beach and offer a comfortable setting for rehabilitation. If you or a loved one needs help, contact Transformations By The Gulf to learn more about our recovery services.

If you are ready to start planning your treatment process, give us a call. (727)498-6498

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