Between 40% and 60% of patients with substance abuse disorders relapse. Have you recently completed addiction recovery treatment? Maintaining your sobriety is the next step.
Without an aftercare plan in place, however, you could relapse.
Here are five techniques to improve your health and prevent relapse. Stay on track with your sober journey today.
1. Know Your Triggers
Take the time to recognize your triggers. Triggers are both internal and external. Encountering your personal triggers could increase the risk of a substance abuse relapse.
Triggers can include:
- Certain sights and smells
- Peer pressure
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Drug paraphernalia
- Relationship issues
- Loneliness
- Certain places or people
- Withdrawal symptoms
Recognizing your triggers can help you avoid them. It can also help you develop a plan for reacting to these triggers.
For example, perhaps loneliness is one of your triggers. Have someone you can call the next time you feel lonely. Make an effort to spend more time with friends or family members.
If a work environment and the resulting stress triggered you to drink in the past, reconsider your career path.
2. Build a Support System
You don’t have to struggle with your addiction recovery alone. Build a support system that can hold you accountable for your sobriety.
For example, you can attend group therapy sessions or visit a therapist.
A professional can help you work through the challenges you’re facing. They can provide you with the tools you need to navigate triggers.
If you need additional help, consider visiting a treatment center based on your substance abuse. For example, you can find treatment for opioid addiction here. A treatment center can provide you with tools, resources, and support.
3. Attend Meetings
The next time you feel triggered, attend an Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous meeting. Regular 12-step meetings will help you build your support system.
You can learn from people who were once in your position. They can provide you with help, tools, and guidance for maintaining your sobriety. Learn from their stories and experiences to avoid relapsing.
4. Find New Hobbies
If boredom or loneliness triggers your substance abuse, pick up hobbies to keep yourself busy. You can stimulate your brain by developing new skills.
For example:
- Knitting
- Learning a language
- Playing an instrument
- Cooking new recipes
Consider hobbies you can enjoy with other people.
5. Improve Your Health
Improve your mental and physical health.
Eat a balanced diet to ensure your body receives the vitamins and nutrients it needs. Aim to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Remember, sleep deprivation can trigger a relapse.
Exercise to release endorphins and improve your physical health. You can walk, jog, swim, or lift weights.
To minimize stress, try meditating, journaling, or deep breathing exercises.
Prevent Relapse With These Techniques
Remaining sober is an ongoing process. Use these five tips to prevent relapse and maintain your sobriety. Remember, you’re not alone.
If you need additional help, visit a treatment center today.
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