Drug and alcohol addiction can cause life-altering consequences. There is no cure for substance use disorder; staying in recovery often feels like an insurmountable challenge. Relapse occurs when a person attempting to stop using drugs is unable to avoid using. There is no need to live in fear of a relapse if you are aware of your emotions and triggers. At Crestview Recovery, we want to provide you with the reassurance and network you need to stay in recovery.
You Can Beat Addiction
As noted, there’s no cure for addiction. There are rehab resources, tools, and steps you can take to control your addiction though. It does not have to be a dominant force in your life. You will not always think about it or feel its impact. Knowing this should give you hope that you can overcome the risk of relapse with the right support along the way.
Recognize What Puts You Most at Risk of Relapse
One of the best ways to control relapse is simply to know what situations, people, and places put you at the highest risk for using. We call these triggers. Most people have them, but they will range significantly from one person to the next. Relapse triggers may include any of the following. When you recognize these things happening to you, work to get out of the situation or reach for help from a person you trust.
Locations Where You Used to Use
Going back to a place where you used to use heavily is never a good idea. You also do not want to be in an area where drugs and alcohol are being used right now. Remove this risk by simply avoiding these locations. Doing so prevents relapse from crossing your mind.
Stress
Stress is a part of every person’s life. From work and home stress to dealing with the world around you – you’ll feel times that are frustrating. The key here is to learn how to properly manage your stress, so it never puts you at risk for using. There are many ways to do this:
- Avoid stressful situations if you can
- Learn how to talk yourself through them
- Focus on the hear and now, not what’s to come
- Find a way to reduce stress such as through physical exercise or meditation
- Engage in happy experiences to minimize the impact of stress
Mental Health Disorders
During recovery, you may learn that you have some types of mental health disorders. You may find yourself dealing with depression or anxiety. Some people have post-traumatic stress disorder, a condition from an untreated trauma in your past. These types of triggers can push you towards relapse if you do not manage them. The best way to do so is to stay on top of your mental health are mental health treatment and use medications given to you.
When You Feel at Risk for Relapse
There are some situations where you may feel more at risk of relapsing than before. It’s terrifying to find yourself in this situation. That’s when you need immediate help. Our team at Crestview Recovery is here to support you. Reach out to us for care, including through programs like these:
- Telehealth rehab programs
- Family therapy programs
- Outpatient drug rehab
- Men’s rehab programs
- Women’s rehab programs
You Can Find Support and Immediate Help at Crestview Recovery
Relapse does not have to happen to you. The more aware of the risks you are, the more support is available to you. Our team at Crestview Recovery can provide you with the reassurance and guidance you need, no matter where you are in the recovery process. Just take the time to call our counselors at 866.262.0531 to learn more.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
