Terri Ramsey Beavers Over 31 million people around the world have a drug use disorder. Despite how common it is, many people fail to receive the treatment they need. For those that do complete a drug rehab program, the next step is to remain clean and sober.
If you’ve successfully undergone treatment, congratulations! Now that you’ve completed this feat, it’s time to take on the next: avoiding a relapse.
Here are the relapse prevention strategies you need to remain clean and sober. With these tips, you can improve your quality of life in the long run. Stay on the path of recovery with these tips for preventing relapse.
1. Maintain a Routine
About one in seven Americans develop a substance addiction. Meanwhile, only 10% receive treatment.
Throughout your drug rehab program, you probably grew used to an established routine. That routine can give you a sense of stability. Once you’ve completed the program, it’s important to find a new structure in your life.
Try to create a schedule for yourself. Your daily schedule can include items like:
- Time for hobbies
- Work
- Family time
- Treatment
- Meetings
Establishing this schedule will help you learn how to prevent relapse by focusing on what matters in your life instead.
2. Find Direction
During the course of your addiction, it’s likely you abandoned certain hobbies or activities. One of the best relapse prevention strategies you can utilize is to find new hobbies to replace the old ones.
Discover a new passion! Try picking up art or learning a new interest. You might decide to spend your time volunteering instead.
Finding direction in your life will help you discover a new purpose for yourself and keep your mind off your addiction.
3. Create New Goals
After completing your rehabilitation program, you’ll realize you have the chance for a fresh start. Take advantage of that blank slate by creating long-term goals for yourself. Where do you want to see yourself in one or five years?
Make sure to celebrate your accomplishments, big and small. Recognize how far you’ve come without your addiction slowing you down.
4. Avoid Temptations
Do you have friends who enjoy drinking or recreational drug use? In order to maintain your sobriety, it’s important to avoid these temptations.
However, that’s sometimes easier said than done. What if you’re invited to a holiday party where people will likely drink? Attend the party with someone who understands what you’ve gone through.
They can help you avoid temptations and maintain your sobriety.
5. Create a Support System
Building your life after addiction is easier when you have people there to support you. Consider joining a support group. Talk about your struggles and gain insight from people who were once in your shoes.
Otherwise, make sure to cut negative, unhealthy relationships from your life. Maintain a strong, supportive community of people instead.
Easy Relapse Prevention Strategies: Remaining on the Road to Recovery
Stay on the road to recovery! These easy relapse prevention strategies can help you make the most of your new life. Now that you have a second chance, it’s time to make the most of it.
Explore the Health and Wellness section for more tips on living a healthier life.