Triggers are the things that make you want to dip, like dealing with a stressful situation or seeing someone else dip. Different people may have different triggers, but one thing is true for everyone: knowing your triggers and making a plan to manage your cravings will help you quit dip for good. Here are some common triggers and tips for how to deal with them.
Do you dip when you’re really happy? What about when you’re feeling down?
Many dip users would answer “yes” to both of those questions. It’s very common to want to use dip to escape a bad mood or to make a good mood better.
For example, you may notice an urge to dip when you’re having negative emotions, like when you feel:
- Stressed or anxious
- Lonely
- Bored
- Sad
- Amped up after an argument
Positive emotions can also trigger the urge to dip, like when you’re feeling:
- Happy
- Excited
- Relieved
How to Deal
You can learn how to manage your feelings without turning to dip. Try these tips:
- Get active. Getting your body moving is a great way to handle emotions. When you exercise, your brain releases chemicals that make you feel good.
- Listen to music. Music can relax you by slowing your heart rate, lowering your blood pressure, and lowering the amount of stress hormones in your body.
- Take some deep breaths. Slow, deep breathing helps slow your body down, quiet your mind, and make cravings less intense.
Are there things you can’t imagine doing without dip?
Many people connect using dip with certain activities. Plan ahead with ways to stay dip-free when you’re:
- Watching TV or playing video games
- Driving
- Working out
- Talking on the phone
- Finishing a meal
- Drinking coffee
- Taking a study or work break
- Doing chores
- Working outside
How to Deal
Try to break the link between dip and the activity that triggers you by replacing it with something else. Here are some ways:
- Keep your mouth busy. If you’re used to dipping while you drive, keep sugar-free gum or toothpicks in your car.
- Change your routine. Try working out at a different time or brushing your teeth right after you eat a meal instead of before bed.
- Get active. Go for a walk or hop on your bike. Physical activity can help distract you from triggers.
Do you crave dip in social situations?
Social situations or events are another common trigger. For example, you may have cravings when you:
- Go to a party.
- See someone else dip or smoke.
- Spend time with friends who dip or smoke.
- Go hunting or fishing.
How to Deal
Many people who have quit dip find it helpful to make some changes to their social lives, at least for a while. Once you’ve decided to quit, you may want to:
- Avoid places where people dip.
- Ask friends not to dip or smoke around you.
- Spend time with friends and family who don’t dip.
You might not be able to stay away from all your triggers. But you can be ready with ways to handle them. Prepare ahead to deal with increased cravings you might have when you’re in places where other people are using dip. Over time, it will get easier to handle social situations that make you want to dip. Try to stick with it and continue to ask friends and family for their support.
