or reach out online to get started.
What Is a Relapse Prevention Plan?
One of the most essential ways to avoid relapse is by setting a plan known as a relapse prevention plan. Creating this plan can start with answering questions like:
- When are you most likely to use substances such as drugs and alcohol?
- What people in your life supported your substance use disorder?
- What made you relapse in the past?
- What triggers caused you to relapse?
The answers to these questions will help clients understand and avoid substance use in the future.
Clients will brainstorm situations and people that could lead to a relapse. They will also identify relapse red flags. For example, if being around certain groups of people might cause you to abuse drugs or alcohol, this should be added to the list of relapse triggers. In addition, if attending parties where drugs or alcohol is present will be a trigger, this, too, should be avoided. This activity supports our clients in understanding relapse and how to prevent an occurrence.
When a trigger occurs, clients must know what to do to avoid using drugs or alcohol to manage their emotions. Relapse prevention plans should be realistic and specific. Identify people and places that are relatable and will support their sobriety. When a client completes a detailed plan, they will experience success at a greater rate. For example, clients who enroll in our services understand that they are members of a sober community.
What Are the Benefits of Preventing Relapse?
When clients use our relapse prevention therapy, they will be enhancing their ability to remain sober even after completing a rehab program. Here are some of the reasons clients will benefit from relapse prevention therapy:
- Define what it means to relapse and the role it can play in long-term recovery. As a result of peer support and encouragement from mental health professionals, clients will understand that relapse is not a failure but a temporary setback.
- Understand people and situations that will be triggering. Once a client is able to do this successfully, they will be able to recognize situations that will make them vulnerable and navigate them.
- Build confidence and believe in the power of the recovery process. When clients’ self-confidence grows, their ability to manage their emotions will continue to grow.
- A supportive community of peers and mental health professionals. Relapse prevention programs include a peer support community of people who have experienced similar challenges.
- Improved chances of long-term recovery. A relapse prevention curriculum coupled with an alumni support program will support a client in remaining confident in their sobriety.
Recovery is within reach—just reach out to our team today to get started.
Prevention Therapy Program at Greater Boston Behavioral Health
Live Sober
Live Connected
Greater Boston Behavioral Health
Mental Health Therapy Programs