Stress is something that everyone experiences at some point in their life. However, high levels of stress can damage anyone, especially those in recovery. Stress is a very common relapse trigger. High levels of stress can lead one to feel helpless or hopeless, sometimes even lead to anger, and many may not yet be equipped with tools to manage stress. Stress can manifest for everyone differently, but some common ways you may recognize you have too much stress include cravings for your substance of choice, headaches, nausea, fatigue, irritability, heart palpitations, and over-excitability. Knowing how you react to stress can help you manage your stress levels and avoid relapse. 
Triggers in Recovery Include Stress and Anger
Sometimes, stress and anger go hand in hand. In moments of high stress, it is common for some individuals to lash out in anger. Recognizing these moments and what you are feeling or experiencing can help you learn healthy coping mechanisms to avoid relapse. Some common trigger includes: exhaustion, feeling the need for perfection, feeling as though someone is taking advantage of you, feeling as though you are unloved, feeling like you are misunderstood, feeling like you do not fit in, feeling like your workload is too much, or feeling like you cannot handle daily life tasks. Knowing what triggers you’re likely to face while sober will help identify high stress or high anger situations and address the situation before it happens or spirals out of control. In addition, there are several healthy coping mechanisms that you can use during recovery. Being overly stressed can also lead to some people starting to get angry. That is why finding ways to not be so stressed can be helpful, also if you are always angry that can lead to stress, so it is important to tackle both issues before they get so bad it is nearly impossible. Fortunately, Evoke Wellness has professionals who can help you with not only your addiction but your stress and anger issues.
The Link Between Anger and Recovery
Anger issues are commonly associated with individuals that have a substance use disorder. This could be for a variety of reasons. Part of recovery is learning how to cope with emotions healthily. However, recovery can be frustrating, and anger can spiral out of control if new coping mechanisms are implemented. Substance use and anger tend to go together when an individual utilizes substances to relieve feelings of anger or when substances cause anger issues. During recovery, if an individual utilizes substances to help cope with anger issues, it can be difficult to learn new habits to control anger. Anger is a healthy emotion; however, it can be an issue for individuals in recovery and often triggers relapse. Recognizing what triggers stress and anger can help an individual properly address issues before they arise.
Healthy Ways to Manage Stress and Anger While Sober
There are several ways to handle stress and anger during recovery. Finding new, healthier outlets as a way to cope is essential to success. It may take learning new skills or finding the things you enjoy the most, but dedication will prove worthwhile. Some healthy ways to cope with stress and anger during recovery include:
- Anger Management Courses
- Relaxation Techniques
- Yoga
- Deep Breathing
- Meditation
- Humor
- Exercise
- Journaling
- Confiding in someone you trust
- Support groups
- Group therapy
- Eat a balanced, healthy diet
- Ensure proper sleep patterns
- Stick to a routine
- Crafting
- Volunteer time
- Practice mindfulness
Different techniques and coping strategies work differently for everyone. Practice different new things, and find the things that make you feel the most relaxed and in control. Once you find those outlets, practice them every day, in every high stress or high anger situation. Recovery is a lifestyle, and learning new things is part of that new lifestyle. Have fun with this process.
The Importance of Integrated Treatment
One of the most important factors in all of this is integrated treatment. Many individuals with a substance use disorder also have a mental health disorder. Sometimes, these mental health disorders can manifest as high levels of stress or anger issues. Therefore, you must be open and honest about your emotions and situation when seeking treatment. If you have a mental health disorder, getting the proper treatment for that and substance use disorder can enhance the rate of successful recovery. Integrated treatment allows for proper medication, diagnosis, therapies, and overall proper treatment. Finding a facility that recognizes emotional instabilities as an integral part of therapy is key. The proper facility can get you help for stress management and anger issues and treat your substance use disorder.
Finding a Facility That Offers a Therapeutic Approach
At Evoke Wellness, we recognize and respect integrated treatment. We offer a therapeutic approach that addresses all aspects of recovery. Our staff of highly trained, compassionate professionals is empathetic to the emotions that come along with the recovery journey. That is why we have individualized treatment plans tailored to each client. Our programs offer therapy options and medical detox options to meet all of your needs. So what are you waiting for? Call today to take back control of your life.
