Recovery is fantastic, but there is another “R” word that nobody likes to think about: relapse. Even considering the possibility of relapse can be frightening, but understanding some things that often lead to relapse can help prevent it. Call 833.551.2304 to speak with someone from the caring and compassionate team at Gulf Breeze Recovery about relapse, ways to avoid rehab, and our inpatient drug rehab options in Florida.
What Is Relapse and What Happens After It?
Relapse is the return to drug or alcohol use after sobriety. It can happen at any stage of recovery, and it’s often triggered by stress, such as job loss or relationship issues. When relapse occurs, symptoms can vary from person to person and may include the following:
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Loss of motivation
- Feeling hopeless
- Increased drug and alcohol cravings
When relapse does happen, it’s essential to act quickly. Speak with your doctor or a therapist immediately and get back on track with your recovery program. Rehab can help you take the steps needed to get back to sobriety.
6 Ways to Avoid Rehab
Rehab isn’t the only way to prevent relapse. Here are some ways to help you avoid rehab and stay on the path of sobriety.
1. Don’t Rely on Any Addictive Substances
Many believe they can use a different substance rather than their substance of choice and not get caught up in abuse and dependency. However, studies show that those who recover from substance use disorders (SUDs)—rather than simply avoiding their substance of choice—are more successful on average. Transferring addictive habits can happen quickly. It is a slippery slope that is best avoided.
2. Avoid Negative Thinking
Negative thinking can feel awful and overwhelming, but low-mood thinking can’t be trusted. Being aware that you are in a low mood, and knowing not to act while you are in that mood, can prevent relapse. Understanding that a low mood will pass and not fearing them makes them less frightening. Don’t lose your recovery because of a temporary depressed mood. It will pass.
3. Follow Your Aftercare Plan
When completing a treatment program, it is vital to have a plan for transitioning back to “normal” life. That plan should include transitional care with a supportive and helpful aftercare professional. This might be a therapist, a support group, or a continuing education provider who you can connect with, and who understands the challenges that someone in early recovery faces. Support is crucial in avoiding relapse.
4. Don’t Expose Yourself to Temptation
Sometimes people believe they must “face their demons” to prove they are okay. However, being respectful of your sobriety and nurturing it is much safer. Why risk putting yourself in a place of temptation? Allow your sobriety to strengthen without the need to prove you are okay.
5. Resist Building Unhealthy Relationships in Early Recovery
Involving another person in your recovery process can result in you focusing more on the friendship or romantic relationship than on what you need to do to keep your sobriety on track. Take some time to build strength in your sobriety, and then allow friendships or romantic relationships to enter your world.
6. Don’t Try to Use Your Substance of Choice Responsibly
One of the most common misconceptions people have when they become sober is that they then know how much they can use and not get trapped in addictive habits. Don’t plan to use your substance of choice responsibly. It doesn’t work.
Find Substance Use Disorder Treatment in Florida at Gulf Breeze Recovery
Relapse is a real risk regarding substance use disorder, but there are ways to avoid rehab. If you or a loved one is struggling with an SUD, contact Gulf Breeze Recovery today at 833.551.2304. Our caring and compassionate team offers programs for individuals dealing with substance abuse issues.
