There’s nothing more fulfilling than life after addiction. You have undergone successful treatment. You have made plans for the future.
However, a relapse can still be possible. This guide will show you how to prevent one. It’s important that you make sure that you take the necessary steps.
Even if one happens, there is nothing to be ashamed of. We will discuss what you’ll need to do in the event of a relapse. For more information on how you can live a post-addiction life, you can visit the New Waters Recovery website at https://newwatersrecovery.com/.
Let’s talk more about how you can prevent a relapse from happening.
Create a plan for if and when it happens
This is something that should be done during the time of your treatment. You’ll want to make it so that you are in contact with the right people. You should have an action plan in place on what you need to do if a relapse happens.
This can include talking to a counselor, spending time in a rehab center, and undergoing treatment for withdrawal symptoms. Even though you’re putting the plan together, you’ll realize that you may never use it. But don’t neglect the opportunity.
You will be more prepared to tackle the problem with a relapse plan. It’s a lot better than not having one at all. It’s a plan that will be there when you need it the most.
Exercise on a regular basis
One of the best ways to prevent relapse is to have a regular exercise plan in place. Exercising will boost your mood. When you’re in a good mood, you won’t feel the need to relapse.
You may already have an exercise plan in place during your treatment. You may notice that your cravings to your substance of choice will be reduced to nothing. Each week, you should exercise for a total of 150 minutes.
So it can be a half hour session five times a week (or 25 minutes for a period of six days per week). Either way, it can be up to you to choose the schedule you want to go with. Choose exercises such as cardio, weight training, or even a combination of both.
When you’re exercising, you’ll be able to take your mind off of things. It may be a stressful day and you need to cope with it in a healthy manner. Exercise might just be exactly what you need.
Plus, feeling stressed can lead to potential relapse. There are better ways to deal with stress and exercise is one of them. This next point on our list will also be something you’ll want to consider.
Practice mindfulness frequently
Mindfulness can help sharpen your awareness and help keep you more balanced. You will be more aware of how you’re feeling. You may be aware of what is going on around you.
Mindfulness can be as simple as breathing exercises. You can find a nice quiet place and spend a few minutes breathing in and out. As you do this, you can focus on your breath.
As you’re starting out, you’ll want to do five minute sessions every day. You can do an extra session whenever you have an opportunity to do so. Just find a nice quiet room and get it done.
These can really help on stressful days. You’ll feel less stressed on a regular basis. To that end, you won’t even feel the need to relapse as well.
Learn meditation practices so you can do them on a regular basis. You can also do these exercises for longer periods of time when you’re comfortable. It’s a good feeling knowing that you can be able to center yourself and reduce as much stress as possible.
The more balanced you are in your mind, the likelihood of relapse is less to non-existent. Life is great when you are mindful, balanced, and more in control over yourself.
Remove yourself from environments that promote relapse
If there is one thing that might increase the chance of a relapse, it’s the environment you may find yourself in. If you’re in a place where substances are present, you’ll want to leave as soon as possible. That’s because you might find yourself relapsing at any opportunity.
If you are at a get together where alcohol may be present, the best thing you can do is say no. If the chances of relapse appear to be strong, you can leave at any time. People may understand why you left if they know about your past struggles.
Many substance abuse disorders will start due to the environment a person is in frequently. If they have recovered and end up in the same place, they may be right back to where they started.
Get help if needed
If you feel a higher chance of relapse coming on, seek help immediately. Go through your relapse plan and find your contact list. Who can you contact?
You can speak with a substance abuse counselor about why you may be on the verge of relapse. They will do their part to help steer you on the right path. They will remind you of how far you’ve come along from your journey.
If things don’t seem to be in your favor and you relapse, don’t feel ashamed. You’ll get the help you need. Your support system will stand by you and root for you to bounce back.
Final Thoughts
A relapse can happen long after your treatment. However, you can use these tips above to help you prevent one. Life after addiction can be fulfilling and promising. You will take care of yourself and spend time with family.
You can be able to help keep your mind off of things that may stress you out. However, if a relapse happens, you will need to have a plan that you can follow. This way, you’ll be able to recover faster and prevent further relapses from occurring.
