Important Relapse Prevention Strategies that Work

Addiction recovery is a life-long commitment you make to yourself to stay clean and sober. While you may have successfully completed detox, rehabilitation and transitional housing, you must work on your recovery every single day. There is little you can do to fully eliminate triggers, stressful situations and cravings that can trigger a relapse. However, if you’re armed with these 8 relapse prevention tips & coping techniques, staying on track of your recovery can become much easier. If you’re sensing any relapse triggers, keeping these daily prevention tips in your mind can help to ensure you stay on the path of life-long sobriety & recovery.

8 Strategies, Skills & Coping Techniques for Daily Relapse Prevention

Knows the Signs of Relapse (Emotional & Mental):

When you’re able to recognize the signs of relapse you can ask & receive help before derailing your sobriety. Common mental & emotional relapse signs include: mood swings, anger/defensiveness, fantasizing about using drugs, etc.

Be Aware of How you’re Feeling:

Anxiety, depression, anger, fear: these are all normal feelings, but uncontrolled emotions can have dire consequences for those in recovery. It is important to be able to identify how you’re feeling in the moment and find healthy ways to cope, such as exercise, painting or taking a walk.

Fill your Free Time with Positive Activities

Boredom can be detrimental to addiction recovery. It is important to fill your day with healthy, productive activities like exercising, trying a new hobby, volunteering for a local cause and self-care.

Take Care of Yourself

A large part of your sobriety means getting selfish and focusing on your own health & wellness. Get comfortable saying no to activities/situations that could trigger relapse. Avoid people, places and things that do not benefit you or your sobriety.

Create a Relapse Prevention Plan

A relapse prevention plan is an effective way to reduce the risk of substance use to jeopardize your sobriety. Plans include setting goals, identifying triggers, understanding the warning signs & having a backup plan to get out of uncomfortable situations.

Invest in Building Healthy Relationships

Let go of toxic, unhealthy, unsupportive people in your life (especially those still using) and focus on building and growing relationships with those who send you love, support & positivity. These people will make all the difference in the world throughout your sobriety journey.

Lean on your Support Group

Your sponsor, emergency contacts, sober living roommates and regular meeting attendants are there to offer support, guidance and assistance without judgement (they know exactly what you’re going through). Push past moments where you feel discouraged or don’t feel like sharing and lean into your support group.

Take it one Day at a Time

Every day will be faced with different obstacles, challenges and stresses, but the only thing that matters is the here and now. Don’t overwhelm yourself with thoughts of the future.