Risks of Returning to Drug Abuse

Overcoming a drug addiction is one of the hardest things many people have to do. The fight to stay out of the drug life is a constant battle. Some days it is easier than others, but many dangers, or triggers, exist that will pull you back into that life. Once you know the triggers, they will be easier to deal with and avoid.

Familiarity

• The people you were around and the places you used to frequent when you were using drugs should be avoided. Being around those factors will trigger your desire to use again. People like familiarity and if you're around these influences, it will not seem complete without the drug use. If the people you used to hand around with are still using, they will place pressure on you to use. Also, items in your home that remind you of your previous drug abuse are also triggers.

Stress

• This risk is not always avoidable. Your life can be become stressful, whether you want it to or not. A strong connection exists between stress and drug abuse. Recovering addicts face a challenge in stressful times. It is easier to hide from your stress in the drugs, but much more harmful. Instead of turning back to your drug use, take a few moments and breathe deeply. Try a refreshing bubble bath. Go for a walk. Watch an uplifting movie. Cook a meal. Do anything that will take your mind off of your stress and away from drug use.

Isolation and Irresponsibility

• Shutting yourself off from the world, family and friends will not help you keep drugs from your life. Find new friends, talk to old friends that did not use. Keep positive people around you. You are also less likely to be bored. Boredom is a common trigger. If you started using drugs recreationally, boredom might cause you to pick the habit back up. So, keep yourself busy.

  Be sure to make your appointments with counselors and doctors on time. They are there to help you and give you encouragement. This professional encouragement and the fact that someone is keeping track of your progress will help you stay on the drug free path.

Getting Down on Yourself

• Getting down on yourself can occur in a variety of ways. Depression, self-pity and low self-esteem can all increase your risks returning to drug abuse. Illegal drugs could make you feel better about yourself for a little while, so turning to them during these times might seem like a good idea; however, it is not a good idea. Talk to a counselor and learn how to change the way you think about yourself. After the high is gone, you will feel even more down and depressed.