The recovery process from addiction is a lifelong journey. At times, an individual may find themselves having taken a step back in their progress. Most people are especially susceptible to relapse during their first year of recovery. Patients can prepare themselves for this risk by recognizing relapse triggers and implementing relapse prevention strategies into their routines. For anyone looking for relapse prevention in Towson, the Bergand Group is a top-quality rehabilitation facility with varying types of treatment programs.
All About Relapse (and Relapse Prevention in Towson)
Relapse is when an individual reverts to their previous, unhealthy (or dangerous) behavior. For someone battling a substance abuse or alcohol addiction, relapse is when they start using again after a period of being sober. The essential thing to understand is that relapse isn’t permanent. Individuals can get back on track with their recovery process if they address the regression quickly and with professional help.
Relapse typically has three stages: emotional relapse, mental relapse, and physical relapse. The first stage of relapse can start several months before the actual substance abuse occurs. Individuals will begin to feel anxious and unhappy, which will transition into thinking about drug use, and eventually, the lapse into using again.
Relapse Triggers
Recognizing relapse triggers is crucial for a successful recovery. If the patient can understand what makes them turn to substance abuse, they can make a conscious effort to avoid those people, places, and circumstances.
People
For many people, a common relapse trigger is relationships. If a recovering addict surrounds themselves with people that are don’t have their best interests at heart, or who use drugs and alcohol themselves, it can have negative consequences on that person’s recovery.
Circumstances
Another common relapse trigger is drastic changes in mood, such as deep feelings of loneliness, stress, and frustration. A person may want to use drugs or drink as a way to escape these feelings.
Places
Going to specific locations or events, such as parties or bars, where the individual used to drink and do drugs, can be very triggering. A person might glorify the perceived good times they had when they were using when they revisit specific locations in order to chase those “good times” again.
Strategies for Relapse Prevention in Towson, MD
A professional rehab facility will teach patients how to develop relapse prevention strategies. Some popular strategies include:
- Remembering reasons for quitting
- Knowing when to ask for help
- Practicing self-care
- Taking doctor-approved medication to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Participating in healthy distractions (running, crafts, hanging out with friends)
- Celebrate each sober milestone with a reward.
Relapse Prevention in Towson with The Bergand Group
The best chance for success in addiction recovery is with professional help. A relapse can be a severe setback if not addressed immediately and correctly. Relapse prevention in Towson is available at the Bergand Group. The facility offers patients a full support system to receive the medication, therapy, and care they need to succeed in their sobriety. Contact the Bergand Group for an initial consultation today.
About The Bergand Group
At The Bergand Group in Baltimore and Harford County, Maryland, our therapists have more than twenty years of experience in the mental health and addiction fields. Our focus is on providing comprehensive mental health care and appropriate care for addictive disorders. We offer both alcohol rehab and drug rehabilitation. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or substance addiction, there is help available. We also offer several other services, including family therapy and counseling. We can help. Contact us today.
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