Nova Recovery Center
Developing Strategies to Cope with Cravings
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Excellent 4.6 out of 5 434 Google reviews across our locations
What clients say
Trusted by clients across Texas
4.6 from 434 Google reviews across 9 locations
Across Nova Recovery Center, Briarwood Detox Center and Eudaimonia Recovery Homes
★★★★★
“Nova is far from perfect, and some of the information can be misleading. But if you want to cover the 12 Steps while enjoying good food and a beautiful scenic view, this is the place for you. The…”
10 months ago · Wimberley
★★★★★
“I did 90 days at Nova Recovery 6 years ago. I am still sober today. And living a life I could have never imagined. The people and the program they are running impacted me for a lifetime. Better than…”
2 years ago · Wimberley
★★★★★
“I went to Nova almost 9 months ago and I wouldn’t change it for the world. The staff when I first entered were very nice and welcoming. As a 19 year old that didn’t know what I was getting myself…”
2 years ago · Austin
★★★★★
“Nova Recovery Center has been an invaluable part of my journey to sobriety. The intensive inpatient program, coupled with the unwavering support and guidance from my recovery specialist, Mark Rector…”
2 years ago · Austin
★★★★★
“I had such a positive experience at Nova Recovery in Wimberley! The staff genuinely cares and went above and beyond to support me every step of the way. The peaceful setting made it easier to focus…”
a year ago · Wimberley
★★★★★
“I love Nova so freaking much. Nova has saved my life in more ways than one. I was hopeless and had no solution suffering from this disease. The staff there never gave up on me. I was the worst client…”
2 years ago · Austin
★★★★★
“I know Mark rector is non-binary however it saved my life and it did a good job with CPR and I don't know how aside from staying sober I could ever repay it thank you Mr or Mrs or whatever you're…”
8 months ago · Austin
★★★★★
“It's been a few years since I was a patient at Nova Recovery Center. Recently I have been reflecting on my time there and how incredibly grateful I am for the experience I had. I have been to 7 rehab…”
2 years ago · Austin
What Causes Cravings?
Cravings are frequently triggered by something in the environment, whether it be a person, a place, a smell, a sight, a sound, or an emotion. In drug rehab, clients will work with their therapist and recovery specialist to identify situations that trigger urges or cravings. These may include:
- Exposure to a substance
- Particular times of the day or week (after work, lunchtime, late at night, on payday, etc.)
- Seeing or visiting places associated with alcohol or drug use (bars or clubs)
- Watching other people use drugs or drink alcohol
- Seeing an advertisement for alcohol while driving or watching TV
- Feeling anxious, depressed, excited, or joyful
Although triggers will be different for everyone, cognitive behavioral therapy techniques such as self-monitoring can be used to recognize situations that may cause a person to crave drugs or alcohol. Once these situations are recognized, the client and therapist can work together to develop strategies for avoiding these situations and coping with cravings.
Examples of Coping Strategies
Individuals in recovery will have natural inclinations for coping with cravings and high-risk situations and if the therapist can get a sense of their characteristic coping styles, he or she can begin to help the client develop effective coping strategies that will work for them. The following coping strategies are some of the most common.
1. Distract Yourself
Use physical activity like walking, sports, or meditation. Before a craving hits, keep a list of distractions handy.
2. Reach Out
Talk with a sober friend, family member, or mentor. Opening up can ease stress and help you pinpoint unseen triggers.
3. Ride the Wave
Practice “urge surfing”: feel the craving, let it peak, then pass, without acting on it.
4. Reflect on Consequences
Think things like, “If I drink, I could lose my family,” or “Using again might cost me my job.” These reminders can strengthen your resolve.
5. Use Positive Self‑Talk
When cravings arise, counter thoughts like “I need this now” with “I can handle this, and I don’t need it.”
In drug and alcohol rehab, clients may work individually or in groups to practice exercises that reinforce some of the above coping strategies and develop strategies that work best for them to help maintain their sobriety.
Free, confidential, and there is no obligation. Most major insurance accepted.
Related Recovery Resources
Managing cravings is just one part of building a strong, lasting recovery. Nova Recovery Center offers comprehensive support to help you succeed at every stage:
- Effective Strategies to Manage Triggers and Cravings in Addiction RecoveryEvidence-based techniques to identify and respond to triggers before they lead to relapse.
- Therapy and Counseling for AddictionProfessional counseling approaches that address the root causes of cravings and addictive behavior.
- Setting Realistic and Achievable Recovery GoalsBuild a personalized roadmap that includes practical tools for managing cravings day by day.
- Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome and Long-Term RecoveryUnderstand the neurological changes behind persistent cravings and how professional treatment helps.
If you’re struggling with intense or frequent cravings, you don’t have to manage them alone. Our expert team at Nova Recovery Center in Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Colorado Springs is here to help. Call us today at (512) 605-2955 to speak with an admissions specialist about outpatient programs, intensive outpatient treatment (IOP), or our online telehealth options.
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