Addiction therapy programs are crucial to supporting individuals in their journey toward overcoming addiction. However, a relapse prevention plan is equally essential to maintaining long-term sobriety. A relapse prevention program is a personalized plan that helps individuals identify triggers and develop strategies to prevent a return to drug or alcohol use.
Creating a relapse prevention plan is a vital aspect of maintaining long-term sobriety. BrightView supports individuals in creating and implementing a personalized relapse prevention plan. Our addiction professionals can help identify triggers, develop strategies to prevent relapse and create a strong support network.
Contact us today at 888.501.9865 to learn more about our addiction therapy programs and how we can help you maintain long-term sobriety.
What to Know About Creating a Relapse Prevention Plan
A relapse prevention plan is a comprehensive strategy that identifies high-risk situations, triggers, and harmful patterns that can lead to relapse. Here are some essential steps to create a drug or alcohol relapse prevention plan.
Identifying Triggers
The first step in creating a relapse prevention plan is identifying triggers. These are situations or events that may lead to drug or alcohol use. Common triggers include stress, social situations, emotional difficulties, boredom, and physical pain. By understanding these triggers, individuals can develop strategies to avoid or manage them effectively.
Strategies to Prevent Relapse
Once individuals have identified their triggers, they can develop strategies to prevent relapse. For example, someone triggered by social situations can develop a plan that involves only attending events without drugs or alcohol. If it is a work event, they can bring a sober friend or leave early if they feel vulnerable. Strategies to prevent relapse can be as simple as avoiding certain people, places, and things or as complex as developing coping mechanisms for intense emotions.
Creating a Support Network
Having a support network is essential for maintaining sobriety. This network can include friends, family members, counselors, support groups, and addiction professionals. An essential part of creating a relapse prevention plan is identifying who is in a patient’s support network and how those individuals can help. For example, if a patient is triggered by stress, they may ask a family member to be available to talk when they feel overwhelmed.
Reassessing the Plan Regularly
As factors in an individual’s life change, it is essential to reassess their relapse prevention plan and make any necessary modifications. An addiction professional or counselor can help patients identify areas that need to be addressed or modified. Reassessing the plan regularly can help patients stay on track and avoid relapse.
Creating a Drug Relapse Prevention Plan
Creating a drug relapse prevention plan involves identifying triggers and developing specific strategies to prevent relapse. Some tips for creating a drug relapse prevention plan include avoiding situations where drugs are present, developing healthy coping mechanisms for intense emotions, and creating a support network. Additionally, patients should avoid hanging out with individuals who use drugs and seek treatment immediately if they experience drug cravings.
Creating an Alcohol Relapse Prevention Plan
Creating an alcohol relapse prevention plan requires specific strategies tailored to a patient’s triggers. Strategies may include avoiding bars and clubs, having non-alcoholic alternatives at social events, and finding healthy ways to manage stress. Patients should also identify individuals in their support network willing to help them stay sober by attending events with them and being available to talk.
Contact BrightView for Support
BrightView offers relapse prevention programs tailored to each patient’s unique needs and challenges. Our therapists and clinicians work closely with our patients to identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and build a support network to prevent relapse. BrigthView centers are conveniently located in seven states, making it easy for patients to access our addiction treatment programs.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a substance use disorder, don’t hesitate to contact BrightView for help. Call us today at 888.501.9865 or complete our online form to book an appointment and start your journey toward lifelong recovery. Remember, addiction is not a moral failing; you’re not alone. We’re here to help.
