If you’re here, please know that you’re not alone. Relapse is a common part of recovery and does not mean you are a failure. Sure, the recovery you’ve been working on may have been derailed, but it never means you are back to square one. Instead of feeling guilty, why not use this as a golden opportunity to review what went South and figure out how to prevent it from happening again.
After all, 40-60% of people who complete addiction treatment will relapse at least once. But the second time around, you’ll be better equipped to handle it. And to make sure you really are better prepared next time, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to relapse prevention.
Understand the Triggers
Triggers are those sneaky little things that can derail your progress and lead you back down the path of addiction. They come in various forms – from people and places to emotions and situations. By pinpointing your triggers, you’ll be much more ready to handle them when they arise. It’s crucial to recognize the patterns and cues that signal a potential relapse. Perhaps stress, loneliness, or certain social settings trigger cravings for substance use. By understanding what sets off these urges, you can develop strategies to cope effectively without turning to harmful behaviors.
Self-awareness plays a significant role in managing triggers. Take time to reflect on past experiences and pinpoint what specifically prompted a setback in your recovery journey. This introspection will empower you to anticipate triggers proactively and respond …