Stress can be an overwhelming feeling for anyone, but it is dangerous for individuals in addiction recovery. Stress is a common relapse trigger that can threaten a person’s sobriety, especially when the person allows the stress to build. Knowing how to bring peace even in the most chaotic moments is crucial to learn for individuals in recovery. Consider these tips the next time you feel stressed to bring yourself peace and protect your recovery journey.
Stop and Take a Breath
Most resources for coping with stress will always tell you to take a step back and breathe. While this may seem cliche, doing so can bring you a sense of calm even amid chaos. Taking a step back to breathe may feel challenging at first, but training your brain to slow down can help you better cope with stress in the future. Teach yourself how to slow down in moments of panic to give yourself a moment of relief.
Try Mindfulness Meditation
Stressing about things in the past or future is pointless because you cannot control them. You cannot undo your mistakes in the past, nor can you travel to the future to see what happens next. Mindfulness meditation is an excellent option to ground yourself in the present moment. This practice helps you connect with your senses and current surroundings to bring peace to your mind and dispel any worrying thoughts.
Remind Yourself That Thoughts Are Not Facts
When you are stressed, it is all too easy to convince yourself that what you are thinking is a fact. However, stress can make you exaggerate situations and cause you to think of the worst-case scenario. By taking a step back and reminding yourself that thoughts are not synonymous with facts, you can take a deep breath and have more control over your stress reaction. Doing so will protect your recovery in the long run and help you prevent relapse.
Finding peace in stressful moments during recovery is crucial for long-term success in sobriety. While decreasing stress is vital, you should also be seeking to bring about peace. The activities listed above are excellent choices, but it is essential to remember that not all techniques work for everyone. If you are having difficulty with stress in recovery, Alta Loma Transformational Services is here to help. We offer various programs such as inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, nutritional support, and more. Call us today to learn more and find peace at (866) 457-3843.
