Many people can and do complete alcohol addiction treatment programs and drink alcohol again. However, it is common for individuals to struggle with their sobriety. This is where an addiction aftercare program can help. Michael’s House provides our patients with personalized relapse prevention plans. We help our patients create an individualized plan to maintain their sobriety and avoid a relapse. To discover how to prevent relapse through our addiction aftercare program, contact us today at 760.548.4032.
Tips to Prevent Relapse
Relapse does not have to be inevitable. Here are some tips to follow that may help with preventing relapse:
Build a Strong Support System
Having a good network of family and friends is vital during recovery. Surround yourself with loving people who will help keep you accountable and remind you why staying sober is important.
Avoid High-Risk Situations
People in recovery from addiction should avoid situations that may trigger their cravings and encourage them to use substances. This might include social activities, certain locations where substances are present, or people who have not been supportive of your sobriety.
Connect with a Mentor
Having someone to talk to is essential during recovery. A mentor can provide personalized support and guidance in times of need.
Participate in Aftercare Programs
Aftercare programs can be extremely beneficial for maintaining sobriety. They give you the tools and techniques to handle the stresses of everyday life and help to reduce the chances of relapse.
Follow Healthy Habits
Staying physically and mentally healthy is key during recovery from alcoholism. Eating nutritious meals, getting enough rest, exercising regularly, managing stress levels, and engaging in activities that bring joy can all contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
Learn Coping Skills
It is important to develop and practice coping strategies that do not involve substances. Examples of coping skills include deep breathing, writing in a journal, mindful meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or positive self-talk.
Practice Self-Care
Take time to relax, get quality sleep, exercise regularly, and eat healthy. Self-care is important for both your physical and mental health.
Stay Involved in Recovery
Join support groups or other activities that promote sobriety.
Why Is Addiction Relapse Prevention Important to Recovery?
Addiction relapse prevention is crucial to recovery because it equips individuals with strategies and tools to effectively combat the temptation to revert to substance use, especially during high-risk situations.
It fosters resilience, empowering individuals to navigate the ups and downs of life without succumbing to addiction. Furthermore, relapse prevention is essential because it:
- Reinforces sobriety – Relapse prevention techniques act as constant reminders of the importance of maintaining sobriety, thereby reinforcing the commitment to a substance-free life.
- Promotes self-awareness – By understanding their specific triggers and learning how to manage them, individuals gain increased self-awareness, which is key in preventing relapse.
- Improves quality of life – With a focus on holistic wellness, relapse prevention encourages healthy habits and self-care, significantly improving an individual’s overall quality of life.
- Supports long-term recovery – Relapse prevention is not just about short-term success. It’s about ensuring long-term recovery by providing ongoing support and resources.
- Reduces risk of overdose – Preventing relapse also reduces the risk of overdose, which can be particularly dangerous if an individual relapses and tries to use the same amount of substance as they did prior to their recovery journey.
At Michael’s House, we are here to help individuals maintain lasting sobriety. Our personalized relapse prevention plans can equip our patients with the necessary skills to prevent relapse.
Call Michael’s House to Find out How to Prevent Relapse
At Michael’s House, we provide aftercare support after addiction treatment programs. We have an active alumni program that can provide social opportunities and a touch of support during tough times, and we also provide an open-door policy that allows our patients to connect with us when needed.
With our help, you can develop a vital relapse prevention plan that can preserve your sobriety over the long term. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 760.548.4032 if you’re seeking more information on how to prevent relapse or would like to start planning your aftercare program.
