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 treatment 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 our programs can help you thrive.
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.
Techniques for Relapse Prevention
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- Have an accountability partner – Sponsors and accountability partners can provide honest, non-judgmental support to prevent relapse, especially during high-stress moments.
- 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.
Learn More About Relapse Prevention in Hudson, New Hampshire
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 disorders. 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 treatment for addiction, trauma, and mental health.
Find the Right Relapse Prevention Strategies at A Better State
The best relapse prevention techniques happen during addiction treatment. If you and your loved ones are ready to make a plan, our therapists are here to help. Call us now at 781.412.1488 to learn more about our outpatient programs and get started with relapse prevention in Hudson, New Hampshire today.
