Relapse is one of the most daunting worries during addiction recovery. Because addiction is a day-to-day journey, it can be hard to know how to prevent relapse. Sometimes, worrying about relapse can lead to relapse. That is why focusing on relapse prevention techniques for successful recovery is crucial. An addiction therapy program can provide a range of strategies and techniques to prevent relapse, reduce stress, and help clients know what to do when faced with relapse.
At A Better State, we know relapse happens. It isn’t something to be ashamed of. Our holistic, trauma-informed clinic is here to help you and your loved ones prevent relapse and get treatment if it occurs. We provide the New Hampshire area with flexible outpatient addiction treatment programs. Call us at 781.412.1488 to learn how to prevent relapse and our other programs at A Better State.
What Is Relapse Prevention?
Relapse prevention is establishing strategies to help prevent reuse. In addiction treatment programs, clients work with therapists to develop relapse prevention plans. These step-by-step plans include short- and long-term goals and relapse prevention strategies.
These might include:
- Stress reduction techniques
- Exercise goals
- Work goals
- Therapy schedules
- Peer support group schedules
- A list of addiction triggers
- A contingency plan
For many clients, a relapse prevention plan and therapy can provide added support and reduce stigmas around reuse. Unfortunately, relapse can happen, especially when someone isn’t prepared. Relapse prevention can offer a range of tools, support systems, and simple plans for getting help when necessary.
How to Prevent Relapse?
Understanding how to prevent relapse can be complicated. Recovery is not a one-and-done destination but a lifelong journey that requires consistent effort and attention. If you’ve struggled with addiction, you know how important it is to prevent relapse. The good news is that relapse is not inevitable, and there are potential ways to prevent it.
First, it’s critical to have a solid support system, whether through a therapist, support group, or accountability partner. Finding healthy ways to manage stress and cope with difficult emotions is key. This can include:
- Exercise
- Meditation
- Talk therapy
- Creative expression
Staying connected to your reasons for getting sober and prioritizing self-care can go a long way in preventing relapse. Remember, addiction is a chronic condition, but recovery is possible with the right tools and mindset.
4 Relapse Prevention Techniques
Everyone’s addiction is their own. That means no two relapse prevention techniques that are the same. They are, however, some techniques that can help most people feel more confident when faced with the fear of relapse. Here are some techniques to help:
1 . Mindfulness
Mindfulness is present-moment awareness. Many find mindfulness reduces stress and allows painful emotions to pass more efficiently, reducing the desire to use drugs or alcohol.
2. Know Your Triggers
Knowing addiction triggers and tolerance levels can help someone find constructive coping mechanisms and avoid triggers when they reach mental and emotional capacity.
3. Have an Accountability Partner
Sponsors and accountability partners can provide honest, non-judgmental support to prevent relapse, especially during high-stress moments.
4. Therapy
Consistent group and individual therapy is a great way to assess stress and mindset and help treat mood disorders to prevent relapse.
If you or someone you love struggles with mood disorders like depression, consistent treatment is essential for relapse prevention. Most times, treating mood disorders can reduce the risk of relapse. Treating unprocessed trauma and stress can also reduce addiction triggers, preventing relapse.
Outpatient Programs at A Better State
Relapse prevention is a great way to help people transition from residential and outpatient care to home life. Plans, schedules, and accountability are essential tools for recovery. If you and your loved ones are ready to learn more about relapse prevention’s benefits, the A Better State team can help.
Our holistic clinic in Hudson, New Hampshire, provides clients with various flexible outpatient programs for addiction recovery and mental health conditions. Our partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), and outpatient programs give clients across the New Hampshire area the care they need without compromising their schedules. With individual, group, and family therapy, clients at A Better State enjoy dual diagnosis for comprehensive addiction, trauma, and mental health treatment.
Call A Better State for Help with Relapse Prevention Strategies
The best relapse prevention techniques happen during addiction treatment. At A Better State, our team is here to help you and your loved ones prevent relapse and get treatment if necessary. If you and your loved ones are ready to make a plan, our therapists are here to help. Contact us now at 781.412.1488 to learn more about our outpatient programs and get started with relapse prevention in Hudson, New Hampshire, today.
