Should You Have a Relapse Prevention Plan?

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Relapse prevention plans are vital tools whether you go into detox, treatment, or recovery. Having a plan or goal to help you recognize certain habits or behaviors can prevent future relapse. A relapse prevention plan helps you combat previous habits or behaviors to keep you on the recovery path. The road to recovery is arduous and challenging. Therefore, it is vital to understand how relapse prevention plans work and begin taking the time to create one.

Understanding Relapse Prevention Plans

A relapse prevention plan is filled with strategies and coping mechanisms to help you on the recovery path. The prevention plan aids with specific situations during and after treatment. They are built around what works best for you and work effectively when they are written out and practiced in a controlled atmosphere. These plans ensure you are prepared for any unexpected situation that may occur.

There are many times that a relapse prevention plan is written and shared with a support group. The plan offers actions and strategies to help respond to triggers and cravings in and out of treatment. Relapse is never an in-the-moment type of situation and can occur through emotional, mental, or physical circumstances.

As you go through detox, you may create a prevention plan in case a turn of events occurs. Prevention plans are started with a professional who understands substance use and the situations that can trigger a relapse. The best way to create your relapse prevention plan is to first speak with a substance abuse counselor.

What Is in a Relapse Prevention Plan?

Your relapse prevention plan needs to be an action-based plan. You need to know whom you can call and what to do if a trigger or craving occurs. You will get yourself on track more quickly when you have a relapse prevention plan put in place. 

At first, when you go through the detox process, you may not feel like a prevention plan is necessary. However, a prevention plan better prepares you with the knowledge and understanding if you need any help in the future.

The prevention plan is unique to your situation and has a specific set of components that align with your recovery goals to help you defend against triggers and cravings. Prevention plans contain preventative methods such as continuous programs, aftercare ideas, and support groups that can give you insights about a healthier lifestyle. The prevention model offers a unique insight into the recovery process and prepares you for interactions and situations that are high risk and could make you more susceptible to potential relapse.

If you or someone you love struggles with substance use, looking for a way to understand relapse prevention plans is of vital importance for your recovery process. Taking the first steps through the detox process is a way to begin your journey. When you start a detox, you are aligning yourself with your future goals of a healthier lifestyle. A support counselor will help you determine the qualities and characteristics of your own unique relapse prevention plan and give you the tools and necessary guidance to help you succeed. For more information, call Detox Center of Colorado at (303) 952-5035.

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