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#letstalkaddictionRelapse and overdose has risen exponentially since the start of the pandemic. Its no surprise, really, when we consider what addiction really is: a coping mechanism one adopts to overcome pain and adversity. Lockdowns and social distancing pose a dilemma for those struggling with addiction and mental health concerns as it serves up things that are direct triggers for relapse: isolation, loss of employment, extended poverty, hopelessness, helplessness, fear, anxiety, depression, boredom, loss of connections with support networks...just to name a few. There are ways to overcome and work through triggers, however. * Know your triggers* Reach out for support * Engage in healthy coping skills such as Journaling, meditating, healthy hobbies, exercise, acts of service. * Breath through the trigger and "ride the wave" * Acknowledge you are experiencing a craving. This isn't "good" or "bad" so resist the urge to judge it as such. Cravings are a normal part of the recovery process, no matter where you are in your recovery. * Be gentle with yourself. Addiction is like driving a 4x4 on a wet muddy road and trying to avoid ruts after the mud is dried. These neuropathways are hard-wired in your subconscious much like defense mechanisms and it can take time to habituate a healthier way of being. * Think of addiction as a friend (i know this sounds crazy, but stay with me). A friend whose been there through the good and the bad...a friend who helped you survive. Now when this friend senses you're struggling again, its only natural for it to show up and offer respite. Sit with this friend. Thank it. Honor it for its role in your life. Let the friend know that that way is no longer necessary because you've learned new, healthy ways to cope with life's difficulties. This gives both you and the addiction the opportunity for closure. Recovery doesn't have to be a scary or lonely process. If you honor that part of your life for doing what you knew with the resources you had, guilt and shame won't need to make their cameo. * Check in with yourself daily. Check in with your emotions. Are there any that need attention? What's their message? * Remember, the craving will pass. Be curious with it. This may be an opportunity to discover something new about yourself. * Know that you are worthy. You are loveable. You are significant. You are important. This too shall pass and your light is needed on this planet.