What is the best method for preventing relapse? This is frequently a significant concern for patients recovering from various challenges. At Ashwood Recovery, we understand the fears patients have surrounding relapse. While it is impossible to guarantee that relapse will not occur, undergoing a relapse prevention therapy program is the best way to prevent a relapse. It can provide patients with the knowledge and tools to be as prepared as possible to recognize the warning signs of relapse and seek extra support. Contact the Ashwood Recovery team at 888.341.3607 to learn more about relapse prevention.
The Best Method for Preventing Relapse
A relapse prevention plan is a written plan that patients create with their treatment team before leaving a treatment program. A relapse prevention plan aims to help patients remember to rely on new coping strategies, avoid triggers, and recognize the signs of relapse. Plans like this should be flexible documents that can change and evolve as patients do.
Relapse prevention plans are based on individual needs and circumstances, making each look slightly different. However, a robust plan should include a few crucial elements, including:
- Goals for maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- A list of reasons you quit using
- A list of known and potential triggers and how to manage them
- A schedule for 12-step meetings and other support groups
- An outline of your daily routine
- A plan for dealing with cravings and temptations
- Contacts for your sober support network
- People who know your plan
- Time for reflection, mindfulness, and self-assessment
At Ashwood Recovery, we know it is impossible to prevent regular day-to-day stressors. Still, you can develop the best way to prevent a relapse—healthy coping mechanisms. These can prevent you from returning to maladaptive behaviors. Especially in the early stages of recovery, a strong relapse prevention plan is one of the best ways to avoid a relapse.
A Look at Other Relapse Prevention Methods
In addition to a relapse prevention plan, there are numerous other measures patients can employ to help reduce the risk of relapse. Consider the following:
- Build a robust support system – Surround yourself with supportive, understanding individuals who know your goals and can provide encouragement, accountability, and assistance in times of need.
- Practice self-care – Prioritize self-care that fosters your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, such as regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that make you happy.
- Utilize stress management techniques – Stress is often a significant factor in relapse. Learn and implement healthy stress management techniques that work for you, like journaling, yoga, meditation, or hobbies that bring you fulfillment.
- Avoid high-risk situations – Whenever possible. Steer clear of people, places, and things that may tempt or trigger you.
- Celebrate milestones and progress – Acknowledging and celebrating your accomplishments can boost motivation, self-esteem, and commitment to staying on track.
- Participate in therapy or counseling – Recovery is a lifelong process, and ongoing treatment can provide professional guidance to navigate challenges.
Remember to be kind to yourself and seek extra support when needed. Recovery is a journey, and you will experience setbacks along the way. If you experience a relapse, it doesn’t mean recovery is unattainable. A relapse can be an opportunity to reevaluate which things are working and which you need to change.
Learn More About Preventing Relapse at Ashwood Recovery
Our outpatient programs provide flexible treatment options so patients can receive comprehensive, holistic treatment while maintaining their work, school, or home obligations. In addition to relapse prevention therapy, Ashwood Recovery offers an array of evidence-based and holistic treatment modalities, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR)
- Motivational interviewing (MI)
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Trauma resolution therapy
- Art therapy
Ashwood Recovery is dedicated to treating individuals and families struggling with unresolved trauma, SUDs, other mental health conditions, or dual diagnoses in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment.
Find Relapse Prevention Therapy in Idaho at Ashwood Recovery
Relapse is a normal part of the recovery process. While there are no guarantees that you won’t relapse, learning relapse prevention methods can reduce the risk of breaking your sobriety. Contact Ashwood Recovery today at 888.341.3607 for more about relapse prevention.