Effective Relapse Prevention Strategies From GBAC Professional

Drug addiction and substance abuse are a sincere concern for society and a leading cause of medical illness among the young population. Various institutions and rehabilitation facilities are making efforts to spread awareness and provide accessible resources to deal with substance abuse across Boston and neighboring areas. While the drug recovery journey is a big commitment and a major achievement, relapse can push back any progress made in recovery. Having a reliable relapse prevention strategy and exercising abstinence can help individuals maintain their sobriety and recover from addiction.

Here’s what drug recovery and addiction assistance professionals suggest are the best ways to effectively manage relapse prevention.

1. Identify your triggers and be vigilant about them 
   

   A person’s mental and emotional state plays a big part in how they react in certain situations. In most cases, relapse is triggered due to past experiences or overwhelming circumstances which can push the person to use again. Therefore, one of the most important steps of relapse prevention is to recognize patterns and common triggers. These can be related to work, family circumstances, relationship issues or past traumas, each of which can trigger a stressful situation, increasing the chances of relapse. Pay close attention, document and discuss your triggers and situations with your counselor to decide on effective coping mechanisms.

2. Working on your coping mechanisms

   Knowing your triggers can be a great asset for your relapse prevention. You can develop relevant coping skills and learn how to navigate through such circumstances more effectively if you are prepared.
   If challenging events trigger stress and anxiety, you can work on mental stimulation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or exercising to alleviate stress. However, if your addictive urges are triggered due to social situations, acknowledging them and being mindful of your conduct can help. Work with your recovery advisor to practice making mindful choices and suppressing impulsive behaviors. Support groups and therapy sessions can also enable you to develop some strategies and get the guidance you need for managing your triggers.

3. Develop a prevention action plan

   Building the skills to manage your triggers and cravings is an iterative process and can take some time. While you work your way through to be comfortable with the new normal, you need an action plan you can rely on. A prevention action plan can be your failsafe that you would implement in case of relapse or if you have any addictive urges. Outline the steps of execution, whether it is as simple as contacting your sponsor/ advisor, removing yourself from the triggering environments etc. Having an emergency action plan in place can make a huge difference, especially in moments of vulnerability.

4. Evaluate and develop your support system
   

   Dealing with drug addictions and recovery treatments can sometimes feel challenging and exhausting. But, you need to stay committed and work your way through the process to get your health back on track. Having a support system that you can lay back and rely on is extremely important for the recovery process. Choose a closer circle of people, friends, family or colleagues that can provide you with emotional support and motivate you through the journey.
   Moreover, find some support groups or anonymous meetups where you can meet fellow recovering addicts. These groups can offer moral support and guidance to help you navigate through trying times and stay committed. Overall, this support system would be a resource you can count on alongside your advisor when you feel overwhelmed by the circumstances
   Something that you must do is attend the support group meetings and therapy sessions regularly. Draft a schedule to check in with your recovery advisor, sponsor, family and friends and adhere to it. This would help you stay on top of your recovery and also give you a sense of control over the situation. Making your support network more reliable and accountable helps strengthen your resilience towards the end goal.

5. Stay on track with your medication

   Not all circumstances of addiction recovery need medication-assisted drug treatment, but in case of underlying mental disorders or other medical conditions, some medication may be prescribed. If you have any prescribed medication, you should consult with your advisors and physicians for medication management plans. Moreover, stay vigilant of your medication schedule and make sure to follow the prescription. Depending on the criticality of your condition, any deviations can negatively impact your progress. Most drug rehab centers in Boston provide specialized medication management services for patients.

It is important to remember that addiction recovery is a journey and it takes time. While it may not be a jolly ride and setbacks are part of the process, with commitment and resilience you can get through it. Focus on your progress and make necessary adjustments to accommodate the circumstances as they come. You can connect with the recovery advisors at GBAC in Boston at (877) 920-6583 if you have any queries or need help navigating through recovery and relapse prevention.