ADDICTION RELAPSE PROGRAM

One of the biggest challenges upon completing an addiction treatment program is maintaining sobriety in the long term. Fortunately, with the help of an addiction relapse program, you or a loved one can stay on the path to a healthy recovery.

If you or someone you know needs the expertise that addiction treatment programs can provide, contact BrightView. Our outpatient drug relapse programs offer customized treatment plans consisting of the most suitable therapies and medication for your recovery needs.

Learn more about addiction and relapse and how our addiction treatment programs can help by calling 888.501.9865 today.

What Is Relapse in Addiction?

Relapse is the return to substance abuse after a period of abstinence. It is considered a normal part of the recovery process and can happen at any time during or after treatment. Relapse does not mean that treatment has failed, but it does indicate that further support and strategies are needed to maintain sobriety.

The triggers for substance abuse relapse vary from person to person, but some common factors include stress, negative emotions, peer pressure, and environmental cues. It is important to identify these triggers in order to develop effective coping mechanisms.

What Is an Addiction Relapse Program?

Some people who complete addiction treatment mistakenly believe that is all they need to get sober and stay that way. However, not seeking long-term support afterward can potentially set someone up for unnecessary stress and pressure as they navigate a newly sober lifestyle.

Why might you want to consider enrolling in a drug relapse program? The following are a few good reasons:

  • Continuing care – Substance use disorders are chronic conditions, and continued care can reduce the risk of setbacks.
  • Consistent support – The recovery journey is ongoing, and individuals need consistent support at every stage.
  • Support, education, and resources – These are crucial for helping you manage triggers.

Addiction relapse programs are designed to offer unwavering support to those who have completed addiction treatment and are ready to move forward in their recovery.

How Does Addiction Relapse Treatment Work?

Addiction relapse programs typically consist of various services and therapies tailored to your individual needs. Some standard components of alcohol and drug relapse programs include the following:

Counseling

Regular counseling sessions with a therapist specializing in addiction treatment offer a safe environment to explore emotional issues, life stressors, and triggers that can increase the risk of relapse. Therapists utilize various techniques depending on the patient’s needs.

One of the most commonly used therapeutic techniques for treating substance use disorders is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy helps you address distorted thought patterns that can get in the way of continued sobriety. Your therapist will work with you to help restructure those thoughts into those that empower you and help you overcome obstacles.

Education

Some knowledge and skills needed to support a successful recovery are not intuitive. Rather than beating yourself up for struggling with the same issues over and over, you can enroll in addiction relapse treatment to gain the tools needed to cope with daily challenges. Learning how to manage stress more effectively and reduce or eliminate triggers for substance misuse can go a long way toward promoting long-term recovery.

Support Groups

Having the support of your loved ones is especially important as you recover from substance use disorder, but it is also beneficial to have the support of others in recovery. They can truly understand what you are going through and help you learn from their experiences, both setbacks and accomplishments. Addiction relapse programs make it easy to meet regularly with others in recovery so you can support one another.

The Benefits of Addiction Relapse Treatment

If you have successfully completed an addiction treatment program, you may still wonder if addiction relapse treatment is necessary. Some people have abundant support from their home environment or social circle, which may help them enjoy a healthy recovery from then on. However, that is not always the case, and many people find that ongoing treatment programs are vital to their recovery success. Just a few of the benefits of enrolling in addiction relapse treatment include:

  • Lower risk of relapse
  • Unwavering support
  • Valuable insight from addiction treatment professionals
  • Connection and bonding with others in recovery
  • Improved life skills

Whether you have just completed addiction treatment or are returning after a relapse, addiction relapse programs can help you get back on track and stay on track.

Frequently Asked Questions About Addiction Relapse

What causes people to relapse?

Relapse can happen for a variety of reasons, including exposure to stress, difficult emotions, environmental cues, or people associated with past substance use. Sometimes, a person may feel overconfident in their recovery and let their guard down. Without ongoing support and healthy coping mechanisms, these factors can contribute to a return to substance use.

How often does relapse happen?

Relapse is a common part of the recovery journey. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), relapse rates for substance use disorders are similar to those of other chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension, ranging from 40% to 60%. While relapse can be discouraging, it doesn’t mean recovery is out of reach.

How do I talk to a loved one who has relapsed?

Approach the conversation with empathy, not judgment. Let them know you’re concerned and that you’re there to support them. Encourage them to seek help and remind them that relapse doesn’t mean failure—it’s simply a sign that more support may be needed. Avoid blame and focus on solutions.

What percentage of those addicted to substances end up relapsing?

Approximately 40% to 60% of people with substance use disorders experience relapse at some point during their recovery. This statistic highlights the importance of ongoing care, education, and support even after completing a formal treatment program.

What are some common triggers for relapse?

Triggers can vary by individual, but some of the most common include:

  • Stress or unresolved trauma
  • Negative emotions like anger, sadness, or loneliness
  • Social pressure or being around others who are using
  • Celebrations or events associated with past use
  • Boredom or lack of structure

What are the warning signs of relapse to look out for?

Some early signs that someone might be headed toward relapse include:

  • Withdrawing from support systems
  • Romanticizing past substance use
  • Skipping therapy or support group meetings
  • Increased irritability, anxiety, or depression
  • Justifying “one-time” use

Recognizing these signs early can help prevent a full relapse.

What should I do if I experience relapse?

If you relapse, the most important step is to reach out for help immediately. Contact your treatment provider or a support group, and be honest about what happened. Relapse is not a failure—it’s a chance to reassess your recovery plan and strengthen your coping strategies with the help of professionals.

Does relapse mean that my addiction treatment has failed?

Not at all. Relapse is often part of the recovery journey and doesn’t mean treatment was unsuccessful. Instead, it signals that changes or additions to your recovery plan may be necessary. With the right support and ongoing care, long-term recovery is still very much possible.

Call BrightView Today to Enroll in Our Addiction Relapse Program and Maintain Your Recovery

Alcohol and drug relapse programs serve as an essential step in the recovery process, offering a lifeline of support and resources to anyone facing the risk of relapse. If you or a loved one needs additional help to stay on your recovery path, contact BrightView at 888.501.9865 or fill out our online form to discuss our addiction relapse program options.