Addiction Recovery: Coping With Relapse
Addiction to drugs or alcohol is called a substance use disorder. It changes the brain in ways that continue long after the problem use ends. This is why people with a substance use disorder are at risk for relapse. This is true even after long periods of staying drug- or alcohol-free. Like other chronic diseases, you need to manage the disorder daily. Doing so can help prevent, or manage, a relapse.
You will need ongoing treatment and support. Your long-term recovery will likely involve medicines, behavioral therapy, monitoring, and social support. Here are other tips that can help:
Stick with your treatment plan. It may seem like you've fully recovered. But recovery is a lifelong journey. It doesn't happen quickly for many people. You may feel you don't need to keep taking steps to stay drug- or alcohol-free. But your chances of staying sober are much higher if you continue treatment. This includes addiction counseling, psychotherapy, proper use of medicines, and support groups. If you're thinking about stopping treatment, talk with a professional first.
Get involved in support groups. During the first years, meeting three times a week with others for mutual support is advised. Keeping it up as years pass is strongly encouraged.
If you're thinking about using again, get help first. Let your counselor, support group, or healthcare provider know you want to use again. They can offer crisis support and help you stay drug- or alcohol-free.
Get help right away if you use the drug again. If you start using again, talk with your healthcare provider or someone else right away.
Have loved ones be part of your recovery.One type of therapy is called community reinforcement and family training. This focuses on counseling and training for your family. The therapist teaches your family how to help motivate you to get treatment. This therapy also helps the family spot situations that may lead you to drink or use drugs. Other recovery programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon, can be found nationwide.
Learn healthy ways to cope with stress, anger, boredom, or other triggers. Behavioral therapy can help you learn to cope with drug or alcohol cravings. It can also teach you ways to stay away from drugs and prevent relapse. And it can help you deal with relapse if it occurs.