When you or someone you care about is struggling with substance use, avoiding relapse is one of the most critical parts of the recovery process. Finding an effective relapse prevention strategy is essential after you have made progress in the treatment program. Within substance use and addiction treatment programs, an individual therapy program can allow patients to develop their own coping skills and practice relapse prevention strategies. To learn more about avoiding relapse, call Spokane Falls Recovery at 844.962.2775 to speak with a qualified addiction specialist.
Why Is Avoiding Relapse Important?
The term “relapse” refers to a situation in which an individual recovering from addiction returns to using substances. This can be viewed as a setback on the road to long-term recovery or a fruitful part of the recovery process. At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, we encourage patients to see relapse as a chance for growth. The next step is to continue your recovery and to start the process again, putting what you have learned into action.
Relapse can, however, be dangerous. If you have stopped using alcohol or drugs for a significant period, your tolerance level will not be the same. And your body can react badly, especially if you take the same amount your body was accustomed to before rehab. This dramatically increases the risk of overdose and can cause severe long-term health issues. It can even end in death. These are both cautionary reasons to understand the importance of avoiding relapse.
Tips for Avoiding Relapse
Not every technique for avoiding relapse will work for every individual battling addiction. If you are working on a substance use issues, the following may be of some use to you:
Develop and Maintain a Support System
At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, you will likely participate in group therapy. One of the advantages of this treatment approach is that it allows you to meet individuals with similar experiences and recovery goals to your own. Your peers in recovery can be excellent resources, especially when triggers and temptations arise that could cause a relapse. You should also discuss your recovery with your close friends and family so that they can support you and hold you accountable.
Educate Yourself About Addiction
Being aware of how addiction can harm your health, finances, and relationships is crucial. This understanding will help you to avoid the possibility of relapse. Also, the more you educate yourself about stressors and triggers, the more prepared you will be to prevent or manage them.
At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, you will learn about the science of addiction and what it does to your brain chemistry. If you are unsure where to start, contact Spokane Falls Recovery Center for help. Hundreds of interesting, engaging books, blogs, websites, and podcasts exist.
Learn to Identify Triggers and Avoid Them
Triggers are the people, places, and things that cause a person’s resolve to weaken and can easily lead to relapse. They are different for every individual. It might be difficult for you to interact with your past drinking friends or to visit a neighborhood where you used to acquire drugs.
Unstructured time, or being alone, causes cravings and can make you want to use substances again. Managing or avoiding triggers is vital to preventing relapse.
Develop New Hobbies and Meet New People
Suppose you were previously surrounded by a social circle that encouraged negative habits. The solution is simple: seek out new people and hobbies that promote positivity. This may be an ideal time to reconnect with individuals and activities that brought you joy before addiction took over your life.
Benefits of Understanding and Avoiding a Relapse
Understanding and successfully avoiding relapse provides myriad benefits that contribute to a more balanced, healthier, and fulfilling life. These benefits can include:
- Improved physical health – Substance use takes a heavy toll on your body. Avoiding relapse allows your body to heal and regain its strength, leading to improved physical health and vitality.
- Enhanced psychological well-being – Abstaining from substance use can improve your mental health by reducing anxiety and depression and improving sleep patterns.
- Better relationships – Sobriety can positively impact your personal and professional relationships, leading to healthier interactions and stronger bonds with loved ones.
- Financial stability – Substance use is a health issue and significantly affects your wallet. By avoiding relapse, you can regain financial stability and independence.
- Increased self-esteem and self-worth – Each day you succeed in staying sober is a milestone that boosts your confidence and self-esteem.
By understanding the importance of avoiding relapse, you take an integral step toward long-term recovery and a healthier future.
Contact Spokane Falls Recovery Center to Learn More About Avoiding Relapse
Do not hesitate to take the next step on your journey towards recovery. Contact Spokane Falls Recovery Center today to learn more about avoiding relapse. Our compassionate, experienced team is ready to guide you and provide the necessary tools for successful long-term recovery.
Remember, you do not have to face this battle alone. Contact us at 844.962.2775. Together, we will work to ensure that your path to a healthier future remains clear and attainable.
