Originally Posted by
Berrybean 
Well done. HALT (Hunger-Angry-Lonely-Tired ) has been very important to my recovery. Both in the early weeks / months when the cravings and compulsion was strong, when any of those things could trigger me and easily have led me to drinking. But also now, while I still have my alcoholic thinking to work on if I'm going to remain comfortable in sobriety. Last night was one of the times when 2 of those HALT triggers were rattling away, and I needed to work my program hard to find acceptance and regain some serenity (enough so I'd get a good night's sleep anyway).
Please continue to be watchful of all those triggers. If there is nothing else in your daily plan, at least have routine strategies in place that will protect you from those four things.
As usual, I am with berrybean. Every morning I do five things- I jot them down in my day planner and cross them off, even though I know exactly what they are! I am nearing 7 mos sober and this is still an important, regular habit. One of the items is HALT. I check myself every morning. I often jot a little note next to it- woke up tired, not hungry because had dinner so late, whatever. Notes to self, so to speak.
I also think of this throughout the day, especially when I know I am probably not hungry but thirsty.
I got hangry in my drinking days, and now it is more likely that I will get tired and irritable, or impatient, so I watch for the "restless, irritable and discontent" feelings. AA really encourages you to guard against these and I find it very good practice.
Also, sugar cravings are very normal. I feel mine have gone on too long- on top of a healthy diet I still eat ice cream every day- so now I have started a supplement program, largely of pro-biotics, and designed to help curb sugar cravings.
I am a big believer in occasional treats (even daily when we need them)- as long as your health and weight is where it needs to be!!