craving
 

I'm about to leave work at five. I know I'm tired and hungry, but I am having a huge craving. I feel so aggravated right now. I like being numb. I don't like the weight gain, the hangovers or tuning out my kids. I'll get through it. When does it feel a tiny bit easier?

Over time.

How long have you been clean/sober?

What are you doing for face to face recovery support? I found that in NA (same for AA) I was able to meet people who knew what it was like to be me, and I developed a small group of men whom I could call if I felt "off".

That's not all I get out of NA, but this was essential in the beginning.

One of the first things I learned was that just because it itched, that didn't mean I had to scratch. Likewise, I found that "this too shall pass" really applied to the times when I felt like getting loaded.

Over time it does get easier. A lot easier. I still get urges every once in a while, but I have learned to be honest about where that would get me and why I am feeling that way. I also let that small group of people know when I feel as if I'm in trouble.

Things like playing the tape through really helps as does urgesurfing

http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...e-surfing.html

http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...-cravings.html

It will feel easier sooner if you get something to eat! Give getting food now the same priority you used to give alcohol.

Yep. HALT (Hunger-Angry-Lonely-Tired) . Deal with the trigger.

http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/...t-shiznit.html

Like Coldfusion said, eat as soon as you can and eat a lot. Also drink lots of water, or something sweet to get the sugar your system wants. This will help you a lot. John

Good for you. Caving at day two leads is not the way to make recovery easier. Relapsing just make the struggle that more difficult. If you are hungry and tired, eat and go to bed early.

Stay strong.

Thank you for the support. I do see a therapist every other week. And I'm over my craving. They usually pass quickly, but they come on so strong. You're right, I don't have to scratch the itch!! Thank you 😊

Good job, Suzii! And next time will be a bit easier.

First three days for me were bloody tough.
A beer (or ten) after a long shift was habit so my body expected it.
Day five and its still there but now less.

Keep going. It will diminish

Good for you on getting through it. Great achievement!

You'll read this a lot on this site, but its true. The more distance you put between yourself and your last drunken episode, the easier it gets. I truly believe it. Make sobriety your new normal.

Way to go Suzii

sometimes it helps to "acknowledge" the craving like you would an annoying house fly......or a faucet drip. or a telemarketer.

YOU again? really? I thought i told you LAST time the answer is NO, now quit bothering me and GO AWAY! :a043: