Relapse Prevention in Amarillo, Texas (877) 804-1531

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, relapse rates for addiction are similar to those of other chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, with between 40 and 60 percent of those who enter treatment returning. Treatment programs for relapse prevention in Amarillo offer the highest possible level of success in treatment by helping you to develop the habits, skills, and techniques you need to stay sober for the long-term.

Understanding Relapse is Essential for Preventing It

One fundamental aspect of relapse prevention is helping individuals understand what exactly a relapse is, how it occurs, and how to respond to a lapse or relapse.

Addiction relapse is characterized by a return to compulsive drug use despite negative consequences. A lapse, on the other hand, is an instance of using drugs or alcohol again after a period of sobriety. While a lapse doesn't necessarily lead to a relapse of the addiction, it needs to be addressed immediately to prevent it from escalating to a relapse.

A relapse occurs in three stages:

1. Emotional relapse. You're not consciously thinking about using again, but your emotions are setting you up for a lapse. You may feel unresolved anxiety or anger, or you may be experiencing mood swings or feelings of isolation. Your eating and sleeping habits may change. Self-awareness is key for catching yourself in this early stage of relapse and getting back on track. Relapse prevention programs help you become more aware of your emotions and states of mind to help you identify and recover more quickly from this early stage of relapse.

1. Mental relapse. Here, you begin thinking about using again. You may glamorize your past use or reminisce about the times you used or the people you used with. You may begin to rationalize using again, thinking that maybe you can just use while you're on vacation, or just on Friday nights. You begin to think you can control your use. This stage ends with making the decision to use again, and once you do, it's very difficult to turn back before a lapse occurs.

1. Physical relapse. This occurs when you use drugs or alcohol again. If intervention isn't swift, this can quickly result in a relapse of the addiction.

An article published in the Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine stresses how to approach a relapse to ensure successful recovery. People who view a lapse or relapse as an opportunity to develop missing skills are likely to come back from the relapse quickly, stronger, and more motivated than before. But those who view a lapse or relapse as a personal failing are more likely to become frustrated and give up on recovery altogether.

Relapse Prevention in Amarillo -- Tools, Techniques, and Strategies

Relapse prevention treatment programs do not end when the addict leaves them. Preventing a relapse is the ultimate goal of the rest of their life, and it's addressed through multiple avenues, including individual and group therapy, family therapy, and psychoeducational classes. Our professional programs for relapse prevention in Amarillo use holistic treatments that include a number of complementary therapies as well. This type of approach ensures the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, strategies, and techniques for coping with stress, cravings, and other triggers.

During relapse prevention programs, participants:

• Identify high-risk situations and unique triggers, and develop a plan for avoiding or coping with them.
• Develop a written plan for getting help at the first signs of relapse.
• Engage with a support group on a regular basis for support and to maintain a high level of accountability.
• Practice mindfulness techniques like meditation, yoga, and visualization to promote a higher level of self-awareness and self-care.
• Keep stress levels down by using deep breathing techniques and other strategies to reduce stress.
• Set goals that help them find purpose and meaning in life.
• Identify hobbies and other activities that provide fun and enjoyment.

Relapse Prevention in Amarillo Includes Aftercare

The aftercare plan that is put into place after treatment is complete is a major factor in preventing relapse during the early months of solo recovery. The aftercare plan is designed to meet your individual needs and will likely include ongoing therapy and participation in a community peer support group. Other components of the aftercare plan depend on your needs and may include:

• Time spent in a sober living facility to ease the transition back to "real" life.
• Vocational rehab to help improve your employment status.
• Educational assistance.
• Legal assistance.
• Ongoing treatment for a medical or mental illness.
• Other skills-based classes, such as parenting classes or anger management classes.

Relapse prevention in Amarillo through a careful treatment program can help you recover from an addiction for the long-term, and it will improve your quality of life and your overall sense of well-being.

If you or a loved one is struggling from addiction and continues to relapse time and time again, then don't hesitate to seek help. Call Amarillo Drug Rehab Centers at (877) 804-1531 to speak with an addiction specialist about our relapse prevention programs in Amarillo, TX.