Successfully completing a drug or alcohol addiction treatment program is a significant accomplishment. It means that not only did you recognize that you had a problem; you took the steps to overcome it. During treatment you learned many strategies to support a substance-free lifestyle and resist temptation. Effectively implementing these strategies and having resources and supportive people to turn to is important.
Regardless of how long you have been in recovery, there is always a chance of relapse, no matter how slight. Understanding preventive strategies and techniques can help to reduce risk and allow you to push through and remain substance-free. If you do have a slight slip up, you can still use these tactics to get yourself back on track.
Know your triggers
Identify the people, places, or situations that frequently led to misuse of drugs or alcohol. Find new places to hang out and start building stronger relationships with friends who do not support use. If you always go past your favorite bar on the way home from work, take a different route. Have a plan of escape should you find yourself in a tempting situation. Know who you can call and where you can go.
Avoid unhealthy situations
It can be difficult to break off unhealthy relationships and stay away from certain locations, but sometimes it is necessary. There are many more positive people to befriend who will be supportive of your new lifestyle and share similar interests. There are plenty of different places where you can go to hang out that may not have negative behavior or memories attached to them. Choosing to avoid situations where you know you may be tempted to use and placing yourself in more positive environments can support recovery.
Continue attending support group meetings
Even though you have completed inpatient or even outpatient treatment, continue to take advantage of support groups. This can help you to build a network of support with people who understand where you have been, where you are headed, and what you are going through. They can be a great place to turn when you are facing challenging situations and need some advice, encouragement, or support to get through.
Recognize milestones
As you progress through your recovery, take the time to celebrate milestones. Reflect on how far you have come as well as your short-, mid-, and long-term goals. Seeing the positive changes that you have made and how your life is different can give you motivation and encouragement to continue a substance-free lifestyle.
Take care of yourself
Focus on your physical, mental, emotional, and social wellbeing. Try to eat well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and keep stress at a minimum. Keeping up with your health can help you to avoid getting into a situation where you may feel tempted to use drugs or alcohol to cope.
Start your recovery journey today at Chapters Capistrano. Learn to identify your triggers, overcome challenges, create more healthy routines, and be proactive about relapse prevention. Don’t let addiction stand in your way when it comes to your future. Take steps now to regain control and embrace a substance-free lifestyle.
