Relapse Prevention in Fort Lauderdale FL
Relapse occurs when a person in recovery begins abusing substances after a period of abstinenceRelapse prevention is a set of strategies to prevent a setback, and is an integral part of the addiction recovery process.
Relapse prevention is a set of treatment plans specifically designed to help a person avoid a return to substance abuseStatistics demonstrate that relapse rates are high for many substancesRelapse prevention is an important part of a treatment plan to avoid a likely return to abuseThe most risky period is the first five years, so a plan needs to be in place for at least that amount of time.
The Stages of Relapse
Since relapse is progressive, like substance abuse, there are stages leading to a full Relapse prevention plans teach abusers the stages and warning signs, so they can recognize the red flags earlyStrategies can then be implemented to avoid a setback.
The following is a list of the steps in the order of progression:
- Small attitude and behavior changes begin
- Awareness is low.
- Restlessness and discontent start to grow.
- Abuser's focus goes from their situation to those around them.
- Negativity, blaming circumstances and other people, acting like the victim, fear and anger are displayed.
- Unresolved and ambivalent feelings begin to surface.
- Isolation, both mentally and physically, occurs.
- As negativity continues to grow and take over, compulsive behaviors also grow.
- Dreaming about using again with glamorizing past use.
- A crisis, whether real or fabricated, provides an excuse to start using.
- A rationale has formed to justify using again.
- The decision to use is made.
- False beliefs are developed that abuse will be controlled.
- A progressive slide towards relapse builds.
- Relapse occurs.
Prevention Programs
Treatment centers prepare aftercare and relapse prevention plans while substance abusers are still in treatmentConstant assessments are made to modify these plans as more is learned about the abuserThe following is a list of general guidelines that abusers are taught to look for to prevent a relapse.
- High risk situations: Addiction specialists teach patients new behaviors to rely on in high risk situationsSeeing people who are using, a life crisis or a major life change are all high risk situations.
- Warning signs: Counselors teach individuals about warning signs, so when the warning signs occur, the individual is awareAnger, resentment, feeling like a victim, fear, anxiety and thinking about using again are all warning signs to be recognized, so they can be resolved before it become a road to relapse.
- Reaching out for help: Once warning signs are present or high risk situations aren't handled well, it is helpful if a person reaches out for help early to prevent relapseThey are taught to recognize that mental and physical isolation will lead to relapse if not resolved.
- Sober living: Sober living in a sober living or halfway house is an effective way to help people transition from a residential treatment center, with 24 hour monitoring and skills training.
- Meetings: A person should do "90 meetings in 90 days"Since right after leaving a facility is the most vulnerable time for an abuser, meetings help support themMeetings are a lifelong commitment to staying sober.
- Sponsors: Sponsors help people who have addiction problemsThey are former abusers but are maintaining their sobrietyThey offer their time and experience to help others lead an addiction-free life and avoid relapse.
- Continued counseling: People recovering from substance abuse need continued counseling to reinforce positive behaviors and resolve any issues.
- Therapy: Therapy such as yoga, equine, acupuncture, biofeedback, art or music help people express themselves in ways that are nonverbalThese therapies teach people relaxation and expression to help avoid relapse.
If you or someone you love is struggling with substance dependence, call Drug Treatment Fort Lauderdale at (877) 804-1531. Let them assist you in finding the best facility for you.