ERS 1C Thought-Stopping Techniques

Snapping. Wear a rubberband loosely on your wrist. Each time you become aware of thoughts of using, snap the rubberband and say “No!” to the thoughts as you make your self think about another subject. Have a subject ready that is meaningful and interesting to you.

Relaxation. Feelings of hollowness, heaviness, and cramping in the stomach are cravings. These often can be relieved by breathing in deeply (filling lungs with air) and breathing out slowly. Do this three times. You should be able to feel the tightness leaving your body. Repeat this whenever the feeling returns.

Call someone. Talking to another person provides an outlet for your feelings and allows you to hear your thinking process. Have phone numbers of supportive, available people with you always, so you can use them when you need them.