Identifying And Managing Triggers

Emotions, stress, troubles in a relationship, illness, or just talking about the past can trigger an obsession in us to relapse.  Something good happening and a desire to celebrate can also be a trigger.  Many of us have learned to be alert to the feelings that make up the acronym “HALT” (hungry, angry, lonely, tired) as situations that put us at risk for relapse.  

The ability to identify our recurring triggers will help us make plans for any future crisis.  When a trigger happens, we are then prepared to handle the situation. Some folks choose to memorize one of God’s promises and speak it to themselves as often as necessary until the crisis passes. Others will have people they can call for help when they are in trouble.  The problem is that we often wait to contact those who can help until the thought patterns swirling in our heads change. 

Learning how to recognize what triggers us and developing ways to manage the cravings that result is an important part of living well in recovery today .

Prayer:  Thank you God that I don’t have to face anything alone for You are always with me.  Together with you any difficulty can be worked out and overcome.  Amen