Cravings

Cravings are strong urges or feelings of wanting that can draw attention towards a substance or addictive behaviour. They can be triggered by cues, stress, withdrawal, memories or expectation, and they do not automatically have to lead to action.

A craving can feel urgent, intrusive and difficult to ignore, but it is not the same as a decision to use.

Cravings may involve repeated thoughts, bodily tension, anticipation, restlessness or a strong sense that using would bring relief. They can be triggered by places, people, routines, emotions, withdrawal or memories associated with previous use.

Craving is also not always about pleasure. Someone may strongly want a substance even when they no longer expect to enjoy it very much. At other times, the pull is towards relief from anxiety, stress, loneliness or withdrawal rather than towards feeling good.

A craving can increase pressure towards action, but it is not a command. Urges can rise, change and pass without being acted on.

Experiencing a craving in recovery does not by itself mean that recovery is failing or that relapse is inevitable.

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