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Question: I don't understand why after eight years of abstinence from opiates from time to time I get phantom cravings. I know that I am not suffering withdrawal symptoms but the cravings seem so real, to the point of preoccupying of my thoughts for days at a time. I have knowledge of cues and triggers and what not that can bring this on and the need for behavior modification like the steps etc. What is going on in my brain when this happens?

Submitted on: June 22, 2009

Answered By: Addiction Specialist

Answer: While there have been many advances in the field of addiction, the specific neurological processes underlying cravings are still unknown. The things you have mentioned (avoiding triggers, participating in a 12-step program) are often very helpful but sometimes cravings may still occur. Ultimately, the most important thing is not to act on them because they will eventually go away.

Answered on: August 10, 2009