A New Sequence To start recovery, it is necessary to interrupt the trigger–thought–craving–use sequence. Thought stopping provides a tool for disrupting the process.     

     
Trigger Thought
Thought- Stopping Techniques    
Continued Thoughts            
Cravings            
Addictive Behavior  

  
This process is not automatic. You make a choice either to continue thinking about engaging in an addictive behavior (and start on the path toward relapse) or to stop those thoughts.  
Thought-Stopping Techniques Try the techniques described below, and use those that work best for you:  
Visualization. Imagine a scene in which you deny the power of thoughts of use  or gambling. For example, picture a switch or a lever in your mind. Imagine yourself actually moving it from ON to OFF to stop the using or gambling thoughts. Have another picture ready to think about in place of those thoughts.   

Snapping. Wear a rubber- band loosely on your wrist. Each  time you become aware of thoughts of using or gambling, snap the rubberband and say, “No!” to the thoughts as you make yourself think about another subject. Have a subject ready that is meaningful and interesting to you.  
Relaxation. Feelings of hollowness, heaviness, and cramping in the stomach are cravings. These often can be relieved by breathing in deeply (filling lungs with air) and breathing out slowly. Do this three times. You should be able to feel the tightness leaving your body. Repeat this whenever the feeling returns.  
Call someone. Talking to another person provides an outlet for your feelings and allows you to hear your thinking process. Have phone numbers of supportive, available people with you always, so you can use them when you need them.   
ALLOWING  THE THOUGHTS TO DEVELOP  INTO CRAVINGS  IS MAKING A CHOICE TO REMAIN DEPENDENT  ON SUBSTANCES OR GAMBLING.