The SMArT (Self-Management after Therapy) intervention described in both publications by Lucock et al. (2018, 2021) explored the same relapse prevention intervention for depression but with different participants. It involved creating up to five different implementation intentions unique to each participant, decided collaboratively with a psychological relapse prevention skills wellbeing practitioner during a face-to-face session up to 4 weeks following discharge. Using’ if-then’ statements, these implementation intentions linked any situation (i.e., an internal or external cue) to a response, such as a behaviour, feeling or cognition, and accompanied any relapse prevention plan discussed during therapy.
© 2024 Harvard Health Publishing® of The President and Fellows of Harvard College
Such results are unlikely outside of observed therapy due to frequent discontinuation. Some patients early in recovery may set up unreasonable expectations in that they believe they will never again think about using or having a relapse. Providers need to emphasize that occasional thoughts of using or cravings are a common part of recovery so they can help the patient equip themselves with the skills needed to work through these challenges. This could include avoiding friends and family, not caring for yourself, or not attending therapy or support groups. You’re not thinking about using substances yet, but you might be acting in ways that could lead to relapse. The most important rule of recovery is that a person does not achieve recovery by just not using.
- Self-care is a critical component of addiction recovery because it promotes physical and mental well-being, reduces stress, and helps individuals stay focused on their goals.
- Positive self-talk plays a pivotal role in relapse prevention by nurturing a supportive and empowering internal dialogue.
- Some people relapse several times before new behavior becomes a regular part of their lives.
- The more specific your action plan is, the better, as this means you will be less likely to come within close reach of a relapse.
- These thoughts can lead to anxiety, resentments, stress, and depression, all of which can lead to relapse.
Identifying Triggers
Relapse prevention plans can include ways in which you hope to amend the damage addiction caused in your life. Separating these damages into areas like relationships, legal issues, financial issues or education can help you regain insight as to why you decided to get sober in the first place and provide motivation to make positive choices. Contacting the supportive people in your life can have a tremendous impact on cravings and relapse. Regardless, it is important to consider the following items when creating a relapse prevention plan. Practicing gratitude can help individuals shift their focus from negative thoughts and feelings to positive ones, improving overall mood and reducing the possibility of relapse. Stress can be a significant trigger for relapse, which is why managing it is a critical part of addiction recovery.
Creating a Relapse Prevention Plan
Conversely, around 8 percent of the general population experiences PTSD, but within the subset dealing with a substance use disorder, this figure surges to between percent. If a person does return to using substances, they should speak with a healthcare professional who can help them resume their treatment plan, modify it, or start a new one. Someone may find it useful to imagine how their life will be without using drugs or alcohol. Additionally, they can think about the benefits of rebuilding relationships that may have become strained when a person was using substances.
What is a Relapse Prevention Plan?
This can strengthen the relationship and make them feel involved and valued in your journey. Stay connected with your support network through regular check-ins via phone calls, texts, or in-person meetings. These connections provide strength and accountability, crucial for everyday recovery maintenance. If we would consider why we made the change in the first place, we would remember how the old behavior made us feel worse. Talking to a supportive person, distraction, or relaxation can help relieve the pressure. At some point after making a change, the demands of maintaining it seem to outweigh the benefits of the change.
- Often, those in recovery may feel overwhelmed at social gatherings, holidays, or certain places because they trigger cravings or old behaviors.
- To prevent a relapse, you will want to remove triggers, including places, people, or purchases that may bring about urges to use again.
- Breathalyzers have the advantage of being quick and inexpensive to administer.
- Cognitive therapy and mind-body relaxation help break old habits and retrain neural circuits to create new, healthier ways of thinking [12,13].
Recognizing Warning Signs
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Relapse Prevention
Careers – Join Our Team
- Once a person becomes significantly physically dependent, withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings may be common side effects if drinking or drug use slows or stops suddenly.
- This can strengthen the relationship and make them feel involved and valued in your journey.
- Relapse isn’t just a physical regression; it’s a multifaceted process that involves emotional turmoil, mental conflict, and eventually succumbing to the allure of substances once again.
- Relapse prevention plans can include ways in which you hope to amend the damage addiction caused in your life.
- Click on the state you are interested in, and you’ll get a list of the best centers in the area, along with their levels of care, working hours, and contact information.
