Relapse prevention planning helps people in recovery avoid relapse—which means using substances after a period of abstaining or reverting to unhealthy habits and thought patterns in mental disorders. Relapse prevention is a critical component in managing conditions1 like major depressive disorder, anorexia nervosa, substance use disorders, and other medical conditions. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
How often does substance abuse relapse occur?
Utilizing your support network can be an important part of your prevention plan. You might want to write a list of friends or family members you can call when you are experiencing cravings or challenging situations. It is important that these people understand your recovery process and are not going to create triggers or temptations for you. The cycle of relapse and recovery is common in chronic conditions like SUD, and relapse itself is not an indicator of failure but rather a signal that an individual may need additional support.
What Are the Stages of Relapse?
Self-care is especially difficult for adult children of addicts 27. Probably the most common misinterpretation of complete honesty is when individuals feel they must be honest about what is wrong with other people. I like to tell patients that a simple test of complete relapse prevention honesty is that they should feel “uncomfortably honest” when sharing within their recovery circle. This is especially important in self-help groups in which, after a while, individuals sometimes start to go through the motions of participating.
Example of a Relapse Prevention Plan
Possible substitutes can be designated in advance, made readily available, listed in a relapse prevention plan, and swiftly summoned when the need arises. What is more, negative feelings can create a negative mindset that erodes resolve and motivation Alcoholics Anonymous for change and casts the challenge of recovery as overwhelming, inducing hopelessness. A relapse or even a lapse might be interpreted as proof that a person doesn’t have what it takes to leave addiction behind. Such feelings sabotage recovery in other ways as well—negative feelings are disquieting and are often what drive people to seek relief or escape in substances to begin with.
- Between 40 percent and 60 percent of individuals relapse within their first year of treatment, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
- A trigger doesn’t have to be a traumatic event; it could be a specific situation, a scent, or even a piece of clothing.
- These may be people you meet in a 12-Step program or other support groups.
- Don’t hesitate to reach out by calling our helpline or filling out our contact form if you need help finding the right rehab center or detox program.