Substance Abuse Triggers

Triggers are psychological and physical conditions that incite a strong urge to engage in substance abuse. For many people attempting to overcome substance abuse, triggers are a primary source of frustration and a major influence in relapses. Eight years after treatment at a public hospital, there was a 95 percent relapse rate for alcoholics, according to a study conducted by George Vaillant, a professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.

Stress

• If a person hasn't yet developed solid coping mechanisms that can counteract substance abuse, then stress is a strong trigger. The stress of financial issues, responsibilities, relationships and work can leave addicts vulnerable to the urge to relapse. Stress can create a longing to escape from the problems by turning back to substance abuse. Addicts may view substances as a convenient and effective method of dealing with stress, despite the negative consequences.

Environment

• Being surrounded by the same people, sights and sounds as you were when you used substances, is a major trigger. If drugs or alcohol were a component of your relationships with family or friends, or social activities such as holidays or parties, then being around those people or events could trigger the urge to continue your old habits. It's common for people to associate circumstances with using drugs; it's also difficult to remain abstinent if the people around you are still using them. The sight of the fun people seem to be having can cause you to feel as if you're missing out.

Images of Substances

• Many beer commericals associate drinking with friends and fun.

  Substances such as alcohol have a major presence in the media and can have one in the lives of your peers. Watching a movie or television program, or seeing advertisements and billboards that glamorize alchohol, can trigger temptation. Images such as an alcohol display at a grocery store can be difficult to avoid. Visiting a friend who still uses drugs is an inevitable reminder. Images make it easier for substance abusers to visualize themselves drinking alcohol, or reminiscence about the past when they used drugs.

Emotions

• Emotions such as loneliness, depression, anger, boredom and being uncomfortable can be triggers that create a craving to abuse substances. Addicts may use substances to suppress or alleviate these emotions. Even emotions such as happiness can be a trigger, since many addicts may use substances as a means to celebrate.