Happy Easter - Or is it?

Having time off can be something to look forward to after we've been working so hard. There's time with mates, family & time to yourself to look forward to. But if you've recognised that coke is a problem for you, then this weekend could send you spiralling.

 

There's triggers & temptations to use everywhere - mates texting you to come out, dealers selling their great deals, money in the bank from pay day, events on, football on, the sun shining and then there's boredom!! Triggers triggers everywhere! But guess what? They are not going to go away! So what has to change? You do!

The first thing to do is decide on your preferred outcome - to use less or not use at all?

Second, you need to make a plan on how you are going to achieve your preferred outcome. If you want to use less, decide on your limit, end the night earlier, tell your mates your intention and have a plan for the next day.

If you want to avoid using full stop then this requires a plan of what you are going to do instead of using coke. Find something fun, meaningful or purposeful away from friends that use coke. Meet up with family and friends, start a project - anything to keep you occupied. Then tell your coke using mates your plan!

Thirdly - imagine yourself carrying out your plan. Imagine it being a success. Notice what people say to you when you are clean for a weekend. Imagine what you would say to yourself if you achieved your goal!

If you are needing more support, keep an eye out for my new 12-week cocaine recovery program starting soon. It will provide you with more tools & strategies and you'll also be part of a community of like-minded individuals who are also wanting a life free from coke. This will be a confidential space to be supported and offer support to others.

If you are experiencing any difficult emotions, paranoia, hearing or seeing things or feelings of being unable to cope, call your local Crisis Team or Out of Hours GP service who will be able to help.