Sobering up is a monumental step following rehab. It is the fear of living after addiction that scares some people the most. The last thing they want is to climb that mountain again. Panning for relapse triggers can help alleviate worries about addiction treatment.
The prospect of facing everyday life sober is daunting. They proved getting clean is possible. Having a combination of peer support, therapy and introspection can prove that staying sober is possible.
Defending Against Relapse Triggers is an Important Part of Recovery
Successful completion of detox puts a person in the right frame of mind to begin rehab. Their body is stronger since it is no longer dependent on drugs or alcohol. Their mind is clearer each day that passes without returning to their addiction.
The difficult work of recovery begins where they begin to uncover issues that caused their addiction. Relapse prevention is integral throughout this phase of addiction treatment. Therapy sessions allow them to identify relapse triggers that may cause a setback.
They also learn how to manage stress in helpful ways. The goal is for them to leave rehab with enough confidence to make healthier choices.
The Goal of a Relapse Prevention Plan
A person leaving rehab may feel like the road ahead is daunting. Staying sober was easy while in the safety of an addiction treatment facility. The real world may seem a bit scary after living in it under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Having a plan to prevent a relapse eases these emotions.
The plan is not something to fall back on after a relapse. It is a tool that helps a person avoid relapsing when they face a challenge or relapse triggers.
An addiction relapse prevention plan evolves throughout the treatment process at a drug rehab Illinois trusts. Relapse prevention begins during therapy. It gets honed from shared experiences and feedback during group sessions.
The plan of action may be outlines with steps and milestones. It may also be a verbal commitment to sobriety. Some plans are a combination of steps to reduce cravings and avoid temptation.
Components of a Relapse Prevention Plan
A plan to prevent relapse varies for each person with key components to increase the odds of success. These elements may include:
- Coping mechanisms for learning how to manage relapse triggers and make better choices in the moment.
- Practicing mindfulness to stop relapse where it begins: in the head.
- Recognizing the people, places, and things that could trigger the urge to drink or use again.
- Choosing healthy tools that were helpful during rehab and recovery. These can continue to point the person back in the right direction.
Involving other people that the person trusts. Staying actively engaged in support groups like those in drug treatment centers in PA, helps to build positive relationships. They stay connected with others who understand their struggles.
Be Prepared for the Challenges and Relapse Triggers Ahead
Sobriety is not a destination. It is a lifelong journey. You may hit the relapse bump on this journey. That does not mean you failed. A good rehab program equips you with a relapse prevention plan to avoid pitfalls.
Look for quality addiction treatment Portland Oregon offers today. Doing so increases your odds of staying sober with hope for a brighter future.