Strategies for Relapse Prevention in Baltimore County

Addiction recovery is a process of learning new coping skills in order to better combat the challenges of life and the threat of substance abuse. A significant part of the recovery is avoiding previous patterns of addictive behaviors (commonly called “relapse”). Though figures vary, the fact is that the majority of addicted people who try to quit using alcohol and drugs do not do so on the first attempt because they aren’t sure of the most effective way to avoid relapse.

Navigating the Waters of Relapse Prevent in Baltimore County

Relapse is not inevitable, but it is certainly a risk within the recovery process. The most important thing to remember is that a relapse should not be taken as a “failure.” It’s wise to go to any length to maintain a solid program in recovery and is also crucial to have as many relapse prevention strategies as possible to handle relapse warning signs and symptoms.

Here are some strategies to counteract relapse:

• Support – At the core of your strategy is support, and this can come in many forms. You need to have as many of your friends, family members, addiction counselors, and responsible peers to support you in what you are doing completely. The more support you have from the people around you, the better your chances will be of recovering and beating your addiction.
• Working through symptoms of withdraw – Your strategy should factor in withdrawal symptoms, and they do vary depending on the individual and nature of the addiction. To successfully prevent a relapse, you will need to recognize what some of these symptoms are and how to prepare for them. They can be anything from emotional signs such as anxiety, anger, mood swings to mental and physical symptoms. The more prepared you are for what is to come emotionally and physically, the better shape you will be in overall.
• Decrease stress – Stress is a huge relapse trigger. Find ways to handle varying levels of stress while recovering and facing the challenges of life. The more stress that goes unresolved, the more you are likely to return to drinking or drug use.
• Fight loneliness and isolation – Addiction is a disease of isolation, while recovery involves reconnecting with others (at least to some degree). A critical part of preventing relapse is to do something meaningful. Perhaps it is time to look for a new job or career, go back to school, or do some volunteer work. Giving your life a renewed purpose in this way can be a huge boon against the threat of relapse.
• Avoid risky situations – Try to keep yourself away from places where alcohol/drugs are being served or consumed. Scenarios such as attending weddings, parties, or even hanging out with drinking family members and friends can be triggering. In case you find yourself in any of these environments, you should have a plan ahead of time to best approach them, or to avoid them altogether, particularly if it’s early in the recovery process.

Relapse Prevention in Baltimore County: The Bergand Group

For relapse prevention in Baltimore County, contact the Bergand Group, they provide comprehensive care for various addictive disorders. They will also enlighten you on relapse prevention strategies that will help sustain future sobriety. Get in touch today!

The post Strategies for Relapse Prevention in Baltimore County appeared first on The Bergand Group.