It’s normal to get cravings (urges) when you cut down or stop drinking or using drugs.
You can get through cravings
Fighting cravings or telling yourself you shouldn’t be having them can leave you feeling ashamed and disappointed. It’s more helpful to recognise that cravings are a natural part of cutting down or giving something up. It may feel like they are unmanageable. But they are only thoughts and feelings and you can push through them.
Cravings don’t last for ever
Cravings last an hour or so at most. Sometimes they only last a few minutes. It may help to think of them as a wave that builds up, peaks and then goes away.
Distract yourself till they pass
The big thing is not to give into cravings. Instead, plan ways to distract yourself when they come. Or you could go for a walk, listen to music, make a cup of tea or do a puzzle – whatever works for you.
