Recovery is a lifelong process that does not end once treatment is complete or you return home. Remaining sober is a conscious decision that requires effort and commitment. When a patient completes their rehab program, they enter a vulnerable phase in their recovery journey. The transition out of treatment into normal life presents new hardships and challenges that can put your recovery at risk. During this stage of recovery, the risk of relapse is high. Leaving treatment and rehab is not easy. If a relapse does occur, it is essential to know what to do. At Northpoint Nebraska, our relapse prevention program helps patients create a plan to help them stay sober and what to do after relapse if it does occur. Call 888.351.3834 to learn more.
Understanding What to Do After Relapse
Maintaining recovery is not always easy, and it is possible to slip up. During addiction treatment, patients learn healthy and effective ways to maintain sobriety and what to do after relapse. A relapse is not uncommon. If an individual does relapse, it can be a confusing and frustrating setback to overcome. There are a variety of factors that can contribute to a person relapsing. Some of these can include:
- Exposure to addiction triggers
- Intense cravings
- Feeling overconfident about recovery
- Unrealistic expectations for recovery
- Feelings of extreme stress
- Seeing an old friend that encourages substance abuse
- Having a low self-esteem
After a relapse, it is critical to consider whether you want to seek addiction treatment again. Talking your decision through with your support system can help you understand what the best course of action is for you. For some people, it may be necessary to go through detox again and participate in residential treatment. Not reaching out or talking to someone about your relapse can be a mistake. A relapse can make people feel particularly vulnerable, but it is part of the recovery process. Maintaining sobriety is an ongoing journey that will have ups and downs. Reaching out for support when things go wrong can help you get back on track and prevent a problem from worsening.
Steps to Take After Relapse
Our relapse prevention program helps patients recognize the signs of a relapse and the steps to take after a relapse. It is important to stay committed to your recovery. One slip-up or relapse does not have to drastically impact your sobriety. After a relapse, a person should:
- Reflect on their relapse to understand why it occurred
- Reach out to loved ones and ask for support
- Reassess their situation and environment
- Create a new relapse prevention plan with appropriate adjustments
- Decide whether to seek addiction treatment
Knowing what to do if you relapse can make a difference in your recovery. Returning home to your regular responsibilities is not an easy transition. During this stage of recovery, patients are still learning what coping mechanisms work for them and how to avoid triggers healthily. Treatment and recovery took a lot of hard work and dedication. If you relapse, it is important not to get discouraged and continue abusing substances. There are resources available to help you through it and can provide you with the steps to take after a relapse.
Learn More About Our Relapse Prevention Program at Northpoint Nebraska
If you slip up, it can be difficult to know what to do if you relapse. Our relapse prevention program at Northpoint Nebraska ensures that patients understand what steps to take after a relapse. A relapse can lead to some intense emotions, but it is critical not to keep them to yourself. Our team can help you determine what the best steps are for you and your situation. Contact Northpoint Nebraska at 888.351.3834 to get help and learn more about our relapse prevention program. You can also fill out our online form and let us get back to you.
