Cravings and Addiction: Turning Inconvenient Annoyances into Manageable Moments

Dr. Rory C. Reid, Ph.D., LCSW

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ARTICLE SUMMARY

Cravings are one of the most challenging aspects of addiction recovery, but they do not have to control behavior. This article explains the difference between cravings and urges, how the brain learns addictive patterns, and why recovery begins by creating space between desire and action.
 

Drawing from mindfulness-based relapse prevention, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and cognitive behavioral principles, Dr. Rory Reid presents practical tools—including Urge Surfing, values-based decision making, self-compassion, and trigger awareness—to help individuals respond to cravings without acting on them.
 

Whether recovering from gambling disorder, substance use, pornography addiction, compulsive shopping, or other behavioral addictions, these evidence-based strategies help transform cravings from overwhelming emergencies into manageable moments that strengthen long-term recovery.
 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Key Takeaways

✔ Cravings are temporary experiences—not commands.

✔ Learn the difference between cravings and urges.

✔ Understand the addiction cycle and how habits develop.

✔ Practice Urge Surfing to reduce impulsive behavior.

✔ Use mindfulness and curiosity instead of avoidance.

✔ Make decisions based on personal values rather than immediate relief.

✔ Build self-compassion and resilience throughout recovery.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

About the Author

Rory C. Reid, Ph.D., LCSW is a licensed clinical social worker, researcher, and internationally recognized expert in gambling disorder, compulsive sexual behavior, addiction treatment, and behavioral health. His work integrates evidence-based clinical practice with mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help individuals achieve lasting recovery.