How Relapse Prevention Programs Can Assist In Maintaining Recovery

by Bridget on January 31, 2012

The recovery from addiction to illicit drugs and substances such as alcohol is a lifelong process in the order to maintain a healthy and functional lifestyle. Once participation in a rehabilitation program has been completed, the long and difficult integration process into society begins. Individuals require significant assistance during this time, which is the role of a relapse prevention programs in the maintenance of sobriety.

Addiction

The action of relapse is related to a return to the addictive behavior, which may be attributed to a variety of factors from ineffective recovery programs to poor availability and accessibility of resources. Relapsing is not a failure on the part of the user, but rather provides insight into the effectiveness of a particular rehabilitative program. Many times a co-occurring disorder whether physical or psychological is not addressed during therapy and therefore does not provide effective outcomes for individual circumstances.

Relapse

Relapse prevention programs are essential for those who have completed rehabilitation and require intensive support for ways to achieve a normal state of living. There are a number of aspects which should be incorporated into programs for preventing the occurrence of relapsing into addictive patterns of behavior. This may be achieved with access to support groups and incorporation of informed family members into prevention strategies.

Success

Successful plans are based on the environment, support groups, skill and coping strategies. During rehabilitation, individuals are provided with professional contacts and support groups for the establishment of lifelong relationships in getting through difficult periods and in sharing experiences. Families play a significant role in increased support in the life of previous addicts and are often educated with regards to strategies for assisting in coping mechanisms.

Surrounding Environment

Environment is further incorporated into plans as previous areas of living can serve as the biggest trigger for returning to addictive patterns of behavior. Programs are designed to assist individuals in finding new places of living, within supportive communities for a fresh start. This is especially true in instances where neighborhoods are supportive of drug use or the home of the previous addict is close to obtaining the previously used substances.

Programs

Effective programs will teach individuals to implement the lessons and techniques taught during rehabilitation into daily living for the development of new coping skills. This will assist previous users during times of experienced difficulty and considerable stress. Support networks are encouraged for engagement with others who have shared in similar experiences and are able to identify with the struggles of recovery.

Rehab

Rehabilitation is an ongoing activity that requires significant planning and assistance for maintaining a sober state of living. Such programs are able to assist in coping with surging and overwhelming emotions during periods of difficulty. Core personality belief systems are often targeted in order to encourage previous addicts to engage in positive thought processes.

The relapse prevention program is essential is providing individuals with the assistance to maintain sobriety Getting through rehabilitation alone can be difficult and challenging, which is the reason effective plans for preventing relapsing is important. Health and wellness can be achieved once appropriate resources are put into place.

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