Identifying the triggers of relapse and how to avoid them according to TruPath Recovery Center
An individual may have started using alcohol or abusing substances for fun or as a part of binge drinking. But before they could even understand, they may be addicted to the substance and it may have become their habit. Even though you became addicted to the substance quite easily, the path of addiction recovery is not smooth. Addiction recovery is a very long process that will emotionally, mentally, and physically exhaust a person.
Addiction recovery is a very stressful and frustrating path. This process can become extremely daunting when a person relapse. They may even feel hopeless when they fall into a wagon of relapse before recovering fully. In such situations, it is better to go to rehab centers for addiction likeTruPath which will provide quality detox services and behavioral health treatment along with high-quality therapeutic services and holistic interventions that will help an individual to recover from their addiction effectively. The rehab will also empower the individuals and teach them tools that will help them avoid any possibility of a relapse and stay sober for a long time.
Even though relapse is a part of the recovery process, understanding the triggers that will lead to relapse will help you to come up with plans to prevent them. Now let us learn the most common triggers that can lead to relapse and look into ways to avoid it.
HALT
One of the most common reasons for people to start using the substance and relapse is HALT- Hungry, angry, lonely, and tired. Many people resort to alcohol or substance as a coping mechanism to manage all these emotions. So, try to avoid all those situations, places, or people that can lead you to enter these states.
Recovery should be your priority and make sure you do not feel hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. Sticking with strict diet plans, surrounding yourself with positive people, joining support groups, and engaging in activities that you enjoy will help you avoid these high-risk situations.
Stress
One of the main reasons for relapse is stress. Many people return to alcohol or substance use as a way to cope with stress and anxiety. One way to avoid this trigger is to identify the things that make you feel stressed. Avoid people or situations that cause stress. Practicing mindfulness, staying proactive, meditating, doing yoga, and mingling with people who have your best interest in their mind can help in reducing stress.
Emotions
Negative emotions are one component that can lead to relapse. It is impossible to avoid triggering emotions like sadness, anger, guilt, or loneliness. Emotions are part and parcel of life and are very important in the recovery process. So, learn to cope with your emotions and learn to manage them without the help of alcohol or other substances.
Overconfidence
Recovery is a long journey. Even though you feel that you are completely cured, it is advised to stay alert. It is good to be confident, but if you are overconfident, you will feel that having just one drink will not affect you much. So, always remember that addiction is a chronic condition. One false step can trigger you and lead to a relapse. So, stay focused on your goal, say no to drinks, and avoid situations that can trigger you.
Mental health issues
Prolonged use of alcohol or substances can result in mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and stress. During recovery, if you are having these issues, the chances of relapse are high. To avoid relapse due to your mental health issues, it is advised to see a doctor and get the right prescription. Also, tell your doctor that you are in the process of addiction recovery so that they will prescribe non-addictive prescriptions.
Isolating yourself
One of the reasons for many people to start using alcohol or substance is to overcome loneliness. So, avoiding people and isolating yourself during the process of recovery will make the situation worse. The feeling of shame and guilt also makes many people isolate themselves from others. But understand that the more you isolate yourself from society, the more chances for a relapse.
To avoid relapse due to social isolation, reach out to others and surround yourself with people who have your best interest in their mind. Join sober support systems or some recovery groups where you are comfortable and don’t feel lonely. If you are struggling with social anxiety, take the help of a counselor or sponsor who can help you mingle with others and help you avoid social isolation.
Avoid dating during recovery
It is always best to avoid dating and committing to romantic relationships during the first year of recovery. The main reason for this advice is that a new romantic relationship can trigger a relapse. A breakup with your partner or fights can result in emotional distress. So, it is better not to date and forms new relationships during the initial stages of recovery. Your recovery should be your priority and always remind yourself why it is important to avoid dating.
Even with the best plan to avoid relapse triggers, there are still possibilities for relapse. If you slip off from the track, do not get disheartened. Take professional help and get help as quickly as possible.
