Overcoming substance use disorder (SUD) is not as simple as completing an addiction treatment program. After completing a program, people encounter real-world triggers and temptations in their daily environments. That’s why recovery is a life-long process, and individuals need to learn specific skills to help prevent relapse. But even with the necessary tools to navigate sobriety, relapse can still happen. The important thing is to know how to get back on track.
At Right Step Hill Country, we are here to help you on your recovery journey, whether you are just getting started or trying to figure out what to do after a relapse. Call us at 1.844.675.1628 to get the support you need from our relapse prevention therapy program.
What Are the Signs of a Relapse?
Relapse often doesn’t happen overnight but develops over time, so it’s essential to recognize the warning signs as early as possible and prevent the relapse from happening. But since that’s not always possible, addressing a relapse quickly can also give people a solid chance of getting back on their recovery path. Here are some ways that you might help yourself or a loved one recognize a relapse:
Mood Swings
A person who has relapsed may exhibit sudden emotional instability, fluctuating between anxiety, anger, fear, depression, and hopelessness.
Negativity
Negative thoughts regarding one’s recovery can be a warning sign that someone is on the verge of a relapse. They might share doubts about the longevity of their sobriety or seem resentful about not being able to use the addictive substance.
Isolation
If a person has resumed using drugs or alcohol, they may isolate themselves out of guilt or shame.
Rationalization
A person heading for relapse may begin to justify drinking or using drugs by claiming they can handle it or that it is only a temporary setback.
What to Do After a Relapse
If a relapse occurs, it is essential to have a plan in place to minimize the effects and help ease you or your loved one back toward sobriety. Remember, not all hope has been lost. Taking these positive steps can make a huge difference:
- Do not give up. Stay hopeful that sobriety is just as attainable as it was before.
- Identify the relapse trigger and determine a better way to manage that trigger in the future.
- Seek support from family, friends, peers in recovery, or a healthcare professional.
- Recommit to your recovery goals.
- Practice self-care to reduce stress and vulnerability to triggers.
If you are not enrolled in a treatment program or attending a support group when you relapse, it is a good time to get back into it. Having support for your recovery is one of the most effective ways to help you get back on track.
How Can You Reduce the Risk of a Relapse?
Knowing what to do after a relapse can help shorten its duration. But you also need to know how to reduce the risk of another relapse. There are several things you can do to lower the chances of it happening again:
- Continue to get support from a recovery support group and do so consistently.
- Address existing mental health conditions with a therapist and consider medication if needed.
- Reach out to an addiction treatment specialist whenever you feel particularly vulnerable to relapse, such as during times of increased stress.
- Practice good self-care to promote mental and emotional well-being. Getting restorative sleep, exercising, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular stress reduction practices can help you feel more balanced and reduce triggers for substance use.
When it comes to preventing relapse, the more support you have and the better you take care of your mental, emotional, and physical needs, the greater your chances of enjoying a successful recovery.
Start Relapse Prevention Therapy at Right Step Hill Country Today
You may feel vulnerable when you are starting out in recovery, but you do not have to go through it alone. Right Step Hill Country will provide you with the relapse prevention therapy and long-term support you need. To learn more about how we can help you sustain your sobriety, reach out at 1.844.675.1628 or fill out our online form today.