Relapse prevention techniques are something you will learn while in recovery. It is important to learn and utilize as many techniques as possible to help continue your recovery journey. One of the things that many of those in recovery in Texas are taught is the importance of a good aftercare program. You don’t simply walk out of a residential program with the idea that you will never face temptation again. You also don’t think that relapse is a total impossibility for you. In the first year of recovery, relapse is a strong possibility unless you learn how to recognize the signs of a coming dangerous moment and know what to do to help get you through the cravings.
At Santé Center for Healing, we help you take time to learn the signs of relapse and develop a toolkit of relapse prevention techniques. This will help strengthen your efforts and keep you moving forward. To find out how, call us at 866.238.3154.
Defining Relapse
Ask several people what relapse means to them, and you will get several answers. Some people think simply craving their old substance is a sign of impending doom, while others may think one drink is a minor slip, and they can still feel they are on a successful path.
It is important to know what you consider a relapse before you can prevent its occurrence. It’s also crucial to understand that a relapse doesn’t mean that there’s no hope for you to successfully recover.
Know What Your Triggers Are
What triggers your cravings? Is it being around others who are using, or is it attending family events? There is no right or wrong answer, only your personal answer. You don’t have to feel ashamed that you have triggers. You simply have to identify and acknowledge them without passing judgment on yourself.
Relapse prevention techniques are designed to help you recognize what triggers you, and then they help you avoid those triggers altogether, if possible. However, not all triggers can be avoided, and that is where it is important to have as many substance abuse treatment prevention and support techniques to fall back on as possible. In fact, a relapse prevention plan will help you deal with triggers that are always going to be around.
Handling Emotions
The most helpful thing you can learn to do is handle your emotions. Both positive and negative ones can trigger your urges.
Maybe you always celebrated victories with a drink or night out. Then you need to find relapse prevention techniques that help you change that.
Perhaps your triggers are difficult emotions like anger, loneliness, or sadness. Such emotions are extremely powerful triggers for addiction behavior. Again, knowing where the triggers reside allows you to learn to manage the emotions behind them.
Balance Your Life
Aiming for a balance between work and play will make things easier for you. No person can spend their time in one extreme or another and not get bored or overwhelmed and seek escape. Work has many rewards, but take the time to relax and enjoy the many good things life offers. Spend a day at the beach or take a walk in the woods. Learn a new skill. Add many layers to your life.
Maintain a Support Circle
You aren’t in this world alone, which means you don’t have to be alone in getting through aftercare programs at this stage of recovery. This is the stage that is designed to get you through the rest of your life.
Assemble a support circle that you can turn to when things get rough. They can help you utilize your learned relapse prevention techniques when you need them the most. This support circle can be made up of friends, family, and support group members. It doesn’t matter who is part of it as long as they are willing to help you succeed in your recovery.
Reaching Out
If you or a loved one in the Texas area struggles with a substance use disorder, you have someone to turn to with Santé Center for Healing. Our knowledgeable staff is waiting to answer your call to 866.238.3154 so we can get you started on the road to recovery.
Recovery is full of temptations, and it’s pointless to imagine otherwise. However, when you’re armed with the proper tools, you can get through the dangerous moments. Reach out today for effective relapse prevention techniques.
