Relapse Prevention

Relapse prevention plays a crucial role in addiction treatment! It's natural for some individuals to face challenges with their sobriety even after completing a substance use program. That's where relapse prevention groups and techniques come in! This invaluable support helps individuals identify their triggers and, more importantly, equips them with practical strategies to manage those situations confidently. We’re excited to share insights on relapse prevention in this blog post, ensuring that those on their recovery journey feel informed and empowered. Together, we can pave the way for lasting change and a brighter, healthier future!

What Is Relapse?

After an individual has used a substance or drug for an extended period, their body relies on the feelings that the drug gives. The release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine or serotonin in the body from these substances gives a “high” or euphoric feeling that usually makes it difficult for the person to stop using the drug or substance. As soon as the individual stops using the substance for some time and has gone through rehab, they might still be at risk of relapsing. Relapse can occur for several reasons, depending on the person, how long the individual has been using the substance, and if they have relapsed before. 

Why Is Addiction Relapse Prevention Important In Recovery?

Relapse prevention in addiction recovery is essential because it equips individuals with strategies and tools to effectively combat the temptation to go back to substance use, most especially during high-risk situations. Relapse prevention is important because:

1. It helps in long-term recovery by providing ongoing support and resources.
2. It reduces the risk of overdose, which can be particularly dangerous if the person relapses and tries to use the same amount of substance as they did before their recovery journey.
3. It reinforces sobriety. This is because the relapse prevention tips act as constant reminders of the importance of maintaining sobriety to the individual, thereby reinforcing the commitment to a drug-free life.
4. It dramatically improves the person's quality of life by encouraging healthy habits.

Ways To Prevent Relapse

Here are some ways one can follow that may help with preventing relapse:

• Get Involved In Aftercare Programs
  Aftercare programs are beneficial for maintaining sobriety. They provide the tools and techniques for handling the stresses of everyday life and help reduce the likelihood of relapse.

• Try To Learn Coping Skills
  For people going through the addiction recovery process, it is essential to learn and practice coping strategies that do not involve the use of the substance. Examples of coping skills they can learn include writing in a journal, yoga, breathing exercises, meditation, art therapy, and positive self-talk. These skills can help reduce stress levels, increase emotional regulation, and offer an outlet for self-expression, contributing to better outcomes. Additionally, they can find time to relax, get quality sleep, exercise regularly, and eat healthily. This can help their physical and mental health.

• Build A Strong Support System
  Another tip for preventing relapse in recovery is to have a strong support system. This support system can be a network of family members, friends, and loved ones. Individuals can surround themselves with caring people who will help keep them accountable and remind them why staying sober is important. Moreover, they can join support groups that promote sobriety.

• Avoid Triggers
  People in recovery from addiction can avoid situations that may trigger their cravings and encourage them to use substances. This might include social activities, specific locations where substances are present, or individuals who may not have been supportive of their sobriety.

Factors That Affect Relapse Prevention Strategies

Certain factors could affect a person’s relapse prevention coping skills. These individual factors vary from person to person and may include:

1. Severity of Addiction: If an individual's addiction were severe, mainly if they had used the substance for many years, it would be more difficult to not relapse than those who didn’t have as severe of an addiction.
2. Environment: If an individual is still in an environment that encourages substance use, it may be difficult for them to stick with the relapse prevention strategies they cultivated.
3. Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders: Co-occurring mental health disorders can make it challenging to stay sober as well. Symptoms from anxiety, depression, or mood disorders can make it difficult to develop healthy coping skills for relapse prevention.
4. Level of Motivation: If a person is not motivated to stay sober, then they could relapse faster than a person who is utilizing their relapse prevention skills with more motivation.

Get Help Today From Q Space Detox 

At Q Space Detox, we provide aftercare support after rehab. Our personalized approach to recovery can help you or your LGBTQ+ loved one get the support, resources, and skills necessary to stay on track with your sobriety goals. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 305-745-7768 if you want more information on preventing relapse or start planning your aftercare program.