How to Prevent Relapse and Effective Plans and Strategies

Tips to Prevent Relapse on Drugs and Alcohol

Recovering from alcohol and drug addiction is no easy task. Making the decision to stay clean and sober may be easy, but sticking to it can be hard. Part of this difficulty arises from temptation from friends and even family; especially when it comes to alcohol.

Alcohol is part of everyday life. It is everywhere. Grocery stores, restaurants, homes, the media–it can seem like temptation exists at every turn. If you have made the decision to abstain from alcohol and drugs, it is up to you to create a safe environment for yourself, and minimize situations where you may be likely to relapse. Fortunately, there are Tips to Prevent Relapse and cope with tempting situations.

Remove Alcohol and Drug Related Paraphernalia

Being clean and sober is a lifestyle change. One way to help make it stick is to rid yourself of items related to using. It may feel difficult to let go of certain items, but it is a way to show your commitment to your new lifestyle and remove unnecessary temptation in the process. Be sure that you no longer have drugs or alcohol in the house. It may be helpful to have a supportive friend with you during this process, or even to have it done while you are not there. Remember to clean out your car or office as well.

It is also a good idea to avoid the following places:

• Bars and clubs
• Places you used to use at
• Homes where there are drugs and alcohol readily available
• Places that often result in conflict, which can trigger the desire to use

Identify Your Triggers

For many people, certain situations can trigger a craving. If possible, it is best to avoid these triggers, especially in the beginning. This may mean avoiding people, places and things that you associate with using. Avoid bars and people who are actively using. This can be difficult; especially when it comes to people you are close to such as friends or family.

Work can be a big trigger. If you used to go out with co-workers on a Friday night for a few drinks, or if the company Christmas party is a big drinking occasion, you may need to back out of these situations. Again, this isn’t always easy, but it is something you need to do in order to protect your sobriety.

Get Support and Tips to Prevent Relapse

If you find yourself in situations that trigger temptation, you may want to enlist the help of a supportive friend. Examples of this would be the work-related event that you just can’t get out of, or a family get-together. Bringing a clean and sober friend along with you can be enormously helpful.

During this process, it is helpful to remind yourself why you have chosen to stay clean and sober. Removing tempting objects and situations will help give you the best possible chance of maintaining your new lifestyle. Remind yourself of what you are gaining by making this decision, such as improved health, better relationships, staying out of trouble and improved finances.

Additional Recovery Support

The Treatment Specialist provides resources for inpatient and outpatient treatment programs, sober living homes, and support meetings. Call to connect to a treatment center at 866-644-7911.