More often than you think, people don’t realize the moment a faulty coping mechanism changes into an addiction. Drugs, binge eating, shopping, gambling, exercise, and so on are many forms of addiction that plague human lives. Finding the will to overcome an addiction is difficult, but it’s possible. You can overcome your addiction and start living a healthy, productive life with determination and support.
Jonah Engler emphasizes that if you’re struggling with some form of addiction, know that you’re not alone. Millions of people have suffered, been through similar circumstances, and come out unscathed. With time and patience, so will you. There are resources available to help you recover, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Jonah Engler‘s Tips to Cope with Addiction
1. Understand your addiction
Understanding your addiction is the first and most daunting step to recovery. Begin by focusing on the triggers that cause you to use. Are there any particular situations, comments or people that affect your mental peace? What are the thoughts and emotions that lead you to use? Once you understand the pesky little causes behind your addiction, you can start consciously finding ways to avoid and better cope with them.
2. Set realistic goals
Remember, recovery isn’t a linear journey, and there are bound to be several ups and downs on your way. If you’re going to recover from your addiction, you need to set some realistic goals that are achievable and sustainable. Going cold turkey will only make you doubt your progress and lessen your self-esteem. Even small baby steps every day take you forward.
3. Get support
Even today, people fear the judgment and criticism that often comes when opening up about mental health issues. However, suffering in silence and isolation only makes the situation worse. While recovering from an addiction can be quite intimidating, the task becomes ten times easier if you happen to have a strong support system.
Whether it is a friend, family member or a relative, talking to someone you trust and being vulnerably honest about your struggle can help you receive clarity. It also begins the process of rebuilding relationships that your addiction might have damaged.
4. Be patient with yourself
Recovery is a gradual process, and it is normal to feel like you’re not progressing as quickly as you would like. Be patient with yourself; give your body and mind the time and space to break old patterns and form new ones. The important thing is to get back on track as soon as possible and not to give up altogether.
5. Seek professional help
If you find that you’re struggling to overcome your addiction on your own, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can help you work through the emotions and thoughts that trigger your addictive behavior. They can also provide you with tools and strategies to better cope with difficult situations and triggers.
Bottom Line
Jonah Engler emphasizes that recovery from an addiction is possible, but it takes time and effort. If you’re struggling to find the willpower to recover, remember that you’re not alone. People care about you and want to help you recover. Seek out their support and get started on your journey to recovery today.